What Is a Chronic Condition? 

Chronic diseases are generally defined as conditions that limit your ability to go about your daily life, require ongoing treatment or medication and last for a year or longer. It’s estimated that around half of the adult population of the United States suffers from some kind of chronic condition. While some conditions or disabilities might progress gradually, others may happen suddenly or be present from birth. Whichever the case, good care management is essential for maintaining a patient’s quality of life, and where the condition is likely to worsen over time, can sometimes even slow the degeneration process. 

Some examples of chronic conditions include heart disease, COPD, cancer, dementia and hypertension. Arthritis, high cholesterol, depression and obesity also fall into this category, and all of these diagnoses may require extra assistance while managing care and recovery. 

How Can a Home Caregiver Help With Chronic Conditions? 

In many cases of chronic illness, it can be difficult for ​those affected ​to look after themselves. ​The combination of pain and advanced age ​may impact mobility, making it harder for people to carry out daily tasks like dressing, bathing or moving around the house. ​In this instance, ​having someone to help can not only help keep them comfortable, but is essential for maintaining personal safety and hygiene. 

An in-home caregiver from FirstLight Home Care can ​help keep your loved one safe ​with a disability home care plan, designed to help patients and their families manage this challenging time in a way that’s best for everyone. Though each care plan is different, some of the most common conditions we assist with include: 

Parkinson’s In managing Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions such as ALS or Multiple Sclerosis, a caregiver can assist with mobility, personal care and medication reminders, as well as housekeeping and daily tasks that have become difficult or painful. The right chronic care management can go a long way to slowing the progression of Parkinson’s, so having an expert in your corner can make a huge difference to your loved one’s quality of life. 

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Cognitive degeneration is often characterized by confusion, memory loss and paranoia. It can be distressing to see these signs in a loved one, and we often worry if we have to leave them on their own. With FirstLight Home Care’s dementia care, you can rest easy knowing that a professional caregiver is always there to keep them company and ensure they remain safe and sound. 

Rehabilitation Periods When your care needs are temporary, usually following injury, illness or major surgery, our home recovery care plans can incorporate all our personal care services, as well as mobility assistance, housekeeping, transport and help with prescribed exercise therapies. This kind of assistance can not only provide company and alleviate frustration and boredom but can also drastically reduce the chances of relapse or readmission. 

Other Benefits of Private Home Care 

It’s not just ​your loved one​ who can benefit from having a professional caregiver. If you want to be the one to look after your loved one, but struggle to fit everything in, we can take over household tasks such as shopping​ and light housework​, so you’re free to concentrate on looking after your loved one. 

We can also step in when you need a break. As care providers ourselves, we know how important it is that you remember to look after yourself. When you need time for your other responsibilities, or you just need a vacation, we offer respite care so you’re free to concentrate on you. We’ll care for your loved one as if they were one of our own, taking on all your usual duties until you get back, refreshed, recharged and ready to carry on. 

At FirstLight Home Care, We Help You to Help Your Loved Ones 

When it comes to caring for a loved one, we know you’ll do whatever it takes to ensure they are comfortable, safe and happy at home. If you can’t always be there for them yourself, a professional caregiver will take the time to get to know your loved one and help them live their fullest life, every day. 

If you’d like to know more about how FirstLight Home Care can put together and implement a chronic care management plan for your family, talk to our friendly team and we’ll match you with your ideal caregiver today. 

It’s easy to find someone who can help your loved one with basic needs like bathing, mobility, meals and chores. But they also need companionship, empathy, comfort and dignity. Meeting those deeper needs can mean the difference between surviving and flourishing in old age. 

To age in grace and happiness, your loved one needs in home caregivers who truly see them for the wonderful person they are. That’s why it’s so important to find a provider that works with you to build a customized home care plan that meets your loved one’s unique and evolving needs. 

FirstLight Home Care knows that truly caring for someone requires knowing them as a person. Our caregivers will work to cultivate a genuine relationship with your loved one. They’ll use that understanding to give them the warmth, comfort and companionship they need, in the way they need it. When your loved one has a caregiver relationship built on trust, respect and friendship, you can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands. 

Here’s how we do it. 

We Work with you to build and maintain a customized home care plan.  

“What does your loved one need?” You’ve probably heard this question many times while searching for senior care—and like many people, you might not know the answer.  

When we work with you to build a private pay home care plan, we don’t expect you to know everything. We’ll support and guide you through the entire process, asking the right questions to uncover needs you might not be aware of. 

Your loved one’s needs will change over time. These gradual changes are easy to miss unless you know what to look for. Our expert caregivers and staff are trained to recognize and watch for signals that your loved one might need additional support or services. They’ll let you know if the care plan needs to change, so there’s no guesswork on your part. 

We care for you and your family as well as your loved one. 

While caring for your loved one is our primary goal, FirstLight understands that you’re part of the care relationship as well. That’s why we’ll shape the care plan around your needs, goals and preferences.  

For example, you might want to keep being your loved one’s primary caregiver. If so, we can work with you to build a respite care plan that gives you temporary support as needed before you start seeing the stages of caregiver burnout. That way, when you go on vacation or get sick, you’ll know that your loved one is in good hands. 

Our in-home caregivers genuinely care. 

We know how important it is to truly connect with your loved one. When caregivers focus only on their physical needs, seniors may sense they’re being treated as an assignment rather than a person. Our caregivers and staff seek to build a genuine relationship with your loved one.  

Building a friendship with your loved one allows caregivers to meet more than your loved one’s basic material needs. It helps them offer warmth and companionship, and identify subtle changes others miss. Those connections give caregivers a sense of meaning that keeps them positive and engaged. 

For our caregivers, connecting with your loved one is what makes the job worthwhile. 

Customized Home Care from FirstLight 

Connection and companionship aren’t just nice to have—they’re needs, just like food, water and rest. They give a sense of meaning to your loved one’s life. And they get more and more important as your loved one ages. 

At FirstLight Home Care, we recognize that your loved one deserves to have all of their needs met. We go beyond the basics to give them the kindness and connection that makes their daily life worth living. And we involve you so you know that they’re in capable, caring hands. 

To learn more about how FirstLight Home Care can help, reach out for more information today! 

As such, it’s important to find ways to keep your senior loved ones engaged and thriving, both within and outside of their home environment. This season, rely on fall activities for seniors that create situations that allow them to keep their mind sharp, enhance their physical fitness or enjoy the positive emotions that stem from social interaction. 

Explore some of the most exciting things for seniors to do this fall, all with a seasonal twist. 

Pumpkin Painting 

Carving pumpkins may require a little more physical effort than seniors are able to put in, but there’s a new fall trend that is perfect for the elderly. Rather than opening up the top and scooping the insides out before slicing out chunks of the pumpkin, grab some paint and use it to decorate the gourd with the design of your choosing. From spooky scenes and classic jack-o-lantern faces to pop culture references and autumn-inspired patterns, you can really get creative and make it your own with endless possibilities. 

Apple Picking 

When caring for aging parents, one of the most exciting ways to explore the world is with the whole family. Gather everyone together for a special fall outing to an apple orchard. This quintessential autumn activity provides a chance for seniors to enjoy physical activity (tailored to their ability level), teamwork, stunning scenery, fresh air and time spent with loved ones. 

Baking with Fall Flavors 

One of the best fall activities for seniors is baking. From flaky pies to moist muffins and cookies that melt in your mouth, there is something so exciting about tasting something that you just created from scratch. Incorporate fall flavors, like apple or pumpkin, to give the project seasonality, but keep the focus on the process. Locating and measuring out the ingredients will keep your loved one’s mind active. 

Seasonal Gardening 

A laid-back and tranquil activity, gardening is something that can be done year-round with very exciting results. Add a touch of fall to your garden by incorporating produce that will be harvested in the latter part of the year, like apples, squash, leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. This can also be a great task for families looking for private caregivers, as FirstLight Home Care professionals can supervise or assist when family members aren’t around to do so. 

Leaf Peeping Walks 

As the leaves change and add color to the world, explore your neighborhood or a local park while looking for vibrant fall foliage. This is a great way to get some gentle exercise and fresh air while adding some excitement to the experience. Embrace the deep reds, golden yellows and rusty oranges while leaf peeping, a beloved pastime all over the country but especially in New England or the Pacific Northwest. 

Fall Picnic 

Delve into relaxation with a seasonal picnic, one of the best fall activities for seniors. A picnic is the perfect way to get your loved one out of the house for some fresh air and inspiration from nature. This is especially wonderful for those who don’t have great mobility, as it doesn’t require much movement upon arrival. Gather dishes that feature the flavors of fall to make it extra special or look for colored leaves as you dine and unwind.  

Fun and Games 

Games can be one of the most thrilling pastimes — and they’re something the entire family can enjoy together, no matter the ages. Plus, games can serve as a stepping stone to companionship for lonely elderly, as well as a way to keep their memory sharp. Play board games or card games, or get active with a round of cornhole or oversize Jenga. Crosswords, Sudoku or jigsaw puzzles can also be fun to complete together. Or add a touch of autumn by creating your own game, like a scent competition where participants must identify mystery smells like cinnamon or pumpkin. 

Companionship for Fall Activities 

Sometimes it can be hard to find the time to dedicate to our elderly loved ones. Whether navigating a demanding career, raising children or dealing with something else entirely, we may not be able to pencil in these affairs as much as we would like to. However, these fall activities for seniors can be crucial for their social, emotional, mental and even physical health. 

While you may not be able to be there for each and every activity, don’t limit your loved one. Families looking for private caregivers should turn to FirstLight Home Care – we will be by your side every step of the way with professionals who are well-equipped to provide companionship, care, comfort and more. Get started today — inquire about a personalized quote or call 844-879-7300 to talk with your local FirstLight team. 

Instead of directly hiring a caregiver on their own, many families looking for private caregivers find they prefer the flexibility and reliability of a home care agency. With high-quality caregivers and consistent service built to suit your loved one’s needs, a home care agency can give you complete peace of mind. 

Get Caregivers Backed by a Team 

When you work with a home care agency, you don’t just get an individual caregiver; you get an entire team. Your caregiver or caregivers are supported by a group of other caregivers and expert staff who provide additional resources and backup. If your regular caregiver is unavailable for any reason, the agency will send a substitute caregiver to cover for them. You can rest assured knowing that even if the caregiver calls in sick or changes jobs, your loved one will still receive the best care available. 

Get an Agency-Crafted Care Plan 

Home care agencies don’t just handle the basics. They’ll also customize your loved one’s care to meet to ensure their unique needs are met. Independent seniors living alone might need simple personal care services, while those with serious health issues may need more intensive assistance, and a home care agency knows exactly how to handle each level of care needed. 

Before care begins, a good home care agency will send an expert staff member to consult with you and your loved one about the level of care needed. They’ll listen with kindness and empathy, and work to understand your unique needs. By asking insightful questions based on their experience, they’re often able to identify needs that seniors weren’t even aware of. 

Once they’ve taken stock of the needs, challenges and situation at hand, your agency will work with you to build a care plan. This plan will guide caregivers from day one, showing them the best ways to aid and comfort your loved one. 

From shifting schedules to evolving medical needs, your loved one might not always need the same kind of care. That’s why your agency will check with you periodically to see how the plan is working. You can also reach out to them and modify the plan at any time. 

Get Proven Caregivers 

Home care agencies like FirstLight Home Care hire caregivers carefully. They perform interviews, assessments and detailed background checks to ensure every caregiver is empathetic, trustworthy and able to perform all in-home caregiver job duties. 

Many agencies also give their caregivers professional training, so you can rest assured that your caregiver has the right skills to help your loved one. Many of them also have caregivers specifically trained to help with conditions like dementia and ALS. 

Performance Management 

Home care agencies know how important it is that your loved one receives top-quality care that specifically meets their needs, and hold themselves and their caregivers to high standards. You always know your loved one is in the hands of a well-trained, accountable caregiver who genuinely looks out for them. 

Get Peace of Mind with FirstLight Home Care 

Excellent home care, like the care given by FirstLight Home Care providers, doesn’t just provide support for your loved one, it also gives you peace of mind. Avoid the stress, complications and risks of hiring a private caregiver – with FirstLight on your side, you’ll always know that your loved one is in the hands of a capable team that puts their well-being first. 

If you’re ready to get have an expert in-home caregiver team on your side, we’d love to learn about their needs. Contact us and we’ll connect you with a FirstLight team in your area! 

That help usually comes from an in-home caregiver, whose responsibilities might cover a variety of services that can support your loved one. Whether that’s companion care, personal care or even periodic respite care services, the evaluation helps everyone involved get the most benefit from home care services.  

What Is a Home Care Evaluation? 

A home care evaluation is when a representative from a home care agency visits your loved one’s home to assess their needs, situation and preferences, with the goal of developing a personalized senior care plan that meets those needs. As a secondary goal, it also helps them get to know you and others involved in your loved one’s care. 

How to Prepare for a Home Care Evaluation 

1. Speak with your loved one about the upcoming evaluation. Let them know what’s going to happen and why, and make sure they understand that this visit is meant to benefit them. Discuss their needs, wants, routine and preferences, and make sure to note everything down. 

2. Get your loved one’s medical history. Compile all their medical records you can find. Make sure to get information on their medications, medical conditions and doctors’ orders, as well as any risk factors that impact their health. 

3. Speak with other members of the family, close friends or anyone else who needs or wants to be involved. Their feedback will be helpful, and they’ll usually ask questions or have ideas you hadn’t thought of. Noting down their questions now will limit drawn-out games of phone tag later. 

The In-Home Care Evaluation Process 

When the agency owner or administrator arrives at your loved one’s home, they’ll start with introductions and do a walkthrough of the place. This will help them understand what the caregiver will have to work with. 

Next, they’ll sit down with you and your loved one for a conversation about your loved one’s needs. They’ll ask about current health status and medical history, as well as everyday services that might need to be done like light housekeeping and food preparation.  

A good agency won’t just ask about your loved one’s needs – they’ll want to know about who they are as a person. They’ll ask about their likes, dislikes and preferred routine, as well as any activities of daily living (ADLs) that they need help with. They’ll treat their needs and wants with respect, without dismissing or demeaning them in any way. 

While they’ll focus on your loved one, the representative will also want to know how they can meet your needs. They’ll want to know what led you to seek care and what you’re ultimately looking for, whether it’s to improve your loved one’s health, to provide support for the family or even to just cover for a week so you can take a vacation. 

After that, they’ll take some time to evaluate your needs and come back with a proposal for your care plan. 

How to Evaluate a Care Plan Proposal 

When evaluating a care plan proposal, there are a few things that families looking for private caregivers look out for as good signs. A trustworthy agency will come back with a plan that makes a clear, good-faith effort to find the services that will best solve your problems. They’ll have the experience and expertise to recommend the right level and type of service for your unique situation. 

If something in the proposal doesn’t work for you, they won’t become hostile or defensive – they’ll listen to you and work with you to find a way to meet your needs. Rather than telling you what to do, they’ll work as expert advisors helping you find the best way to care for your loved one. 

The FirstLight Difference 

FirstLight Home Care’s experienced employees can alleviate common challenges faced by family caregivers like stress and burnout. We don’t see your loved one as a medical chart – we’ll work to learn their likes and preferences, with the goal of truly getting to know them for who they are. We’ll create a customized care plan that takes the entirety of who they are into account and update the plan as their needs change. 

We understand that it can be difficult for seniors to adjust to an in-home caregiver, and it’s normal for them to resist help at the start. That’s why we include a personal introduction to help your loved one feel comfortable with their caregiver before the care plan ever starts.  

If you’re interested in a home care evaluation for your loved one, we’d love to speak with you. Reach out to the team at FirstLight today to start work on your loved one’s personalized care plan. 

Learning what to look out for and how to communicate with a dementia patient is crucial with cognitive disorders. Keep an eye out of these 3 early signs of dementia, and read on to discover how best to talk to someone suffering from the disease. 

Tips for Talking to Those Living with Dementia 

Offer Patience and Reassurance 

Patience is absolutely key when it comes to dealing with someone who has Alzheimer’s. As you learn the types of things that can cause confusion, anger or fear, be sure to reassure your loved one that everything is alright and that they are safe. If they take a moment to respond, give them that space and patience to ensure they are able to express themselves without added pressure. 

Don’t Criticize or Argue 

Although the effects of dementia on caregivers can be vast, creating hard-to-handle stress and burdens, one thing to remember is that criticizing or arguing will only make things worse. As your loved one’s brain is affected by this disease, they may not be thinking rationally during your conversations. In their minds, criticism can feel even more harsh than usual, while arguments will likely just go in a circle. To relieve some of their stress and yours, avoid these types of statements. 

Encourage Other Forms of Communication 

While Alzheimer’s and dementia won’t impact your loved one’s ability to speak in most cases, that doesn’t mean that it will be the easiest way to communicate. Other forms of communication may give them time to think about what they are trying to say and help them from becoming agitated as they try to speak. Whether it’s writing things down, pointing, gesturing or even relying on visuals, these nonverbal skills can be very important when learning how to talk to a parent with dementia. 

Avoid Vague Statements or Too Many Questions 

Be clear in what you want or need when talking to someone with dementia. Vague statements only add to the confusion they may already be experiencing. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s go,” explain to them where you are going and why. In that same vein, avoid asking too many questions as could be overwhelming. If possible, turn your questions into leading statements to direct their responses in a healthy way. 

Opt for the Positive Over the Negative 

There’s no doubt that there will be things to discuss with aging parents. But, whether you’re working your way through hard conversations or simply telling your loved one it’s time for dinner, make sure that your messages are filled with positivity. These positive statements can make all the difference in the world, helping to keep agitated or angry behaviors at bay in favor of a good mood all around — for you and your loved one. 

Keep Calm and Carry On 

Living with dementia is not easy, whether you’re the patient or the caregiver. Patience is key, so remember to keep your wits about you and your temper under control. Remaining calm will help you deal with anything that comes up as you learn the best ways to talk to someone experiencing dementia. Whether the conversation goes well or not, it’s important to remember that you will have good days and bad. Don’t give up hope and keep focused on learning better ways to communicate with your loved one. 

How Dementia Care Can Help 

When it comes to Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders, it is often hard to know which steps to take. If your loved one is exhibiting signs that the disease is progressing, let FirstLight’s knowledgeable experts help — we are well-versed in how to talk to a parent with dementia. We offer individualized, in-home dementia care services in a number of cities that can provide much-needed peace of mind. 

Turn to FirstLight Home Care, a brand that will be by your side every step of the way. To get started on your journey, inquire about a personalized quote or reach out today to talk with your local FirstLight team at 844-879-7300. 

What is Private Pay Home Care? 

Private pay is the most common way of paying for home care services. This is when the payment comes directly out of pocket, using savings or existing assets to cover the costs of services.  

Some families are concerned about how to pay for in home care if they don’t have existing assets to cover everything. At FirstLight Home Care, we understand that cost matters, so we work with you and your family to fully understand and navigate any third-party payment options. A number of insurance companies will provide home health care insurance, and there are also a variety of benefits and programs you may qualify for, including veteran benefits.  

What Do I Get Out of My Investment in Home Care?  

At FirstLight Home Care, care is not one size fits all. We assess your loved one’s unique needs and develop a customized plan from our experienced care team. This personalized approach means that home care prices will vary depending on each client’s needs.  

For example, your mom may still live at home and only need about four hours of care per day to help her with daily tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation and running errands. Meanwhile, another family might need a live-in caregiver for a loved one with dementia and requiring full-time support. 

When taking care of a family member, the cost of caregiving goes beyond the value of paying for food or medications but also the lost time and energy spent in caretaking. Having someone else step in and help as a caregiver is one of the best ways to strengthen your relationship with your family member while also ensuring their physical and mental safety. 

What Services Can I Expect From Home Care? 

Aging in place in the comfort of your own home is one of the biggest blessings and one that everyone should be able to experience. With FirstLight’s senior care services, we allow your loved ones to maintain their independence and keep up with their daily routines.   

Here are just a few of the ways our caregivers can help at home: 

• Light housekeeping services 
• Meal preparations 
• Maintaining personal hygiene and bathing assistance 
• Continence and toileting care 
• Transportation to medical appointments and errands 

• Medication reminders 
• Assisting with walking and mobility 
• Providing conversation and company 

At FirstLight Home Care, we’re committed to helping you find the best solution for care services for your loved ones. Request a personalized quote, and we’ll guide you through the process and partner with you to explore all options available for your particular situation.

Although paranoia in elderly people is relatively common and generally isn’t dangerous, it can certainly be upsetting – no one wants to imagine their parent, spouse or family member in distress, especially if you can’t always be there to soothe them. That’s why having a professional in-home caregiver can provide a stable and reassuring presence not just for your loved one, but for you as well. 

What Signs of Paranoia Should I Look Out For? 

Research shows us that there is indeed a link between aging and mental health conditions like paranoia, which falls under the category of psychosis, which is when an individual is separated from reality and therefore sees, hears or believes things that aren’t real. Common symptoms include thinking they are being followed, believing they’ve been robbed when an item has been misplaced, being convinced people are talking about them behind their back, hearing strange noises, or an unfounded conviction that they are being mistreated. These feelings are often accompanied by strong negative emotions such as anger, fear and jealousy. 

What Triggers Paranoia in Older People? 

There are a number of conditions and situations that can lead to paranoia in elderly loved ones. While some of these conditions can be easily identified and treated, others may be more difficult to diagnose and remedy. These include: 

• Degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia, which affect memory and cognitive function 
• Certain medications which can cause irritability or hallucinations 
• Brain tumors and vascular conditions, such as a stroke or blood clots 
• Urinary tract infections, which can trigger sudden confusion and delirium if left untreated 
• Social isolation, particularly in seniors living alone 

As with any health concern, if you are worried paranoia is impacting your loved one’s daily life, then you should speak to their physician as soon as you can. 

How to Help a Loved One Experiencing Paranoia 
Seeing your loved one getting anxious or upset can be difficult, but it’s important not to react with anger or frustration or to let things escalate into an argument. Instead, some easy steps you can take to help include: 

Investigate their concerns. Sadly, unscrupulous people do often take advantage of vulnerable older people, so always double check to ensure this is not the case. 

Check assistance devices. Make sure hearing aids are working properly and glasses prescriptions are up to date. 

Maintain a routine. Avoid changing schedules, moving furniture or even rearranging cupboards. 

Consider professional assistance. Regular visits from a private home caregiver, particularly one trained in dementia care or mental health in older adults, can help provide stability, routine and sense of calm. 

Other Benefits of Professional Senior Care 

While we know that you want to do everything possible to keep your loved one safe and happy, there are times when coping with their paranoia can be tough and even overwhelming – especially if you are dealing with accusations of theft or mistreatment or have other responsibilities to worry about. This is when a professional caregiver can provide expert assistance, as they are trained in dealing with distressed or angry individuals and understand how to navigate these difficult situations. 

On the other hand, introducing a new person into the home is a change, and paranoid individuals can often be suspicious or mistrusting of a new caregiver, so it needs to be handled sensitively and sympathetically. At FirstLight, we understand how important trust is and will take the time to get to know your loved one and build a relationship they can rely on. For those at risk of social isolation, regular visits also provide company, conversation and valuable human connection. 

Share the Burden of Care With FirstLight 

It’s true that no one can understand your loved one as well as you do, and nothing can replace the bond you have with them. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be times when you could use a little extra support. At FirstLight Home Care, our compassionate, professional team of in-home caregivers is specially trained to manage symptoms of paranoia in elderly patients – so if you’d like help from someone who’ll take the time to get to know your loved one and do more to help them live their fullest life, reach out to the team at FirstLight about a personalized care plan today. 

How Common Is Burnout in Family Caregivers? 

Burnout can occur in any profession, but it’s particularly common in family caregivers. As well as the demands of caring, many are also working part- or full-time jobs and raising their own children. Others are retired and have less physical strength than they used to. 

With so many demands on their time and energy, caregivers often end up sacrificing their own health and mental wellbeing –as many as 70% of family caregivers report symptoms of depression and anxiety. Without adequate support and respite, family caregivers are at a high risk of burnout, which can compromise both their well-being and the quality of care they provide. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to spot the signs of burnout and take steps to get help when needed.  

The Stages of Caregiver Burnout 

While burnout can impact almost every area of our lives, it’s notoriously difficult to identify it in ourselves. If you think you may be suffering from burnout, try this caregiver burnout quiz or look out for these five main stages of burnout: 

1. The Honeymoon This often occurs at the beginning of a caregiver’s journey, when tasks are new and novel and you feel optimistic and enthusiastic. For example, this could be when you are making a new plan for your loved one’s care, putting new skills into practice and perhaps purchasing new items for the home. You feel energetic and productive, and might take on more responsibilities than you realistically can or should. 

2. The Onset of Stress This is when things have settled down into a routine and may start to stagnate. Your initial burst of energy is wearing off, and you may start to feel resentful or taken for granted – especially if the job is taking more time and effort than you initially thought it would or cutting into your other priorities. If you’re living with your loved one, you might find it hard to be “off-duty.” This stage is very common for those taking on caregiving after a sudden change, like after a hospital stay. 

3. Chronic Stress You may start to feel overwhelmed and powerless as your loved one’s health declines. Fatigue and exhaustion can impact your ability to care for your loved one, and you might notice changes in your weight or sleeping patterns. At this stage, it’s very tempting to reach for unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol, tobacco or food. 

4. Burnout You may feel tired and stressed all the time, you’re struggling to fulfill your responsibilities and neglecting your own personal needs. It might also be impacting your relationships with other people, and you become angry or irritated easily and more often. This stage is often accompanied by feelings of failure, self-doubt, pessimism and general apathy. 

5. Habitual Burnout The feelings listed at stage four are now just a part of your life. You feel exhausted all the time no matter how much sleep you get, and you are much more likely to be suffering from clinical depression or anxiety. You are also more susceptible to colds, flus and other minor ailments. At this stage, it is very difficult to treat burnout on your own, so it’s time to consider professional intervention and treatment. 

Dealing with Caregiver Burnout 

Being a caregiver can be hard – and while it’s understandable you want to do everything you can for your loved one, it’s vital that you take care of your own health, too. Joining a community of other caregivers can help feel less isolated, and your primary care physician can help you with strategies for burnout recovery.  

Remember, too, that sometimes it’s simply not possible to do everything yourself. If you don’t have another family member who can lighten the load, consider using a professional in-home caregiver – that way, you’ll have time to take care of your other responsibilities without worrying about your loved one at home. 

The Benefits of Professional Home Care 

With a FirstLight home caregiver, you can get help with anything from chores around the house to personal care, dementia care and even home hospice care. As well as being highly experienced, our caregivers are patient, kind and compassionate, and can fill in for as much time as they are needed. 

We also offer respite care, which is a temporary arrangement so that you can take time off only when you need it – for example for your own appointments, for work or a family vacation. Whatever your needs, we’ll do more to ensure your loved one will be safe at home any time you can’t be there. 

Why Caregiver Burden Doesn’t Exist With FirstLight 

It can be hard to admit to needing help, but if you’re a home caregiver it’s essential not to neglect your own wellbeing. Recognizing the stages of caregiver burnout is key to avoiding feeling stressed and overwhelmed, as is sharing the job with someone you can trust. 

At FirstLight, we don’t just care for the individual – we’ll support you and your family as well. If you’d like to learn more about tailoring a care plan that’s unique to you, speak to a member of our friendly team today. 

Who is At-Risk of Being Lonely Elderly? 

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM), one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely. At age 65 and older, a quarter of adults are considered socially isolated – they have a limited sense of belonging in the community and minimal social contact. From losing friends to hearing loss, older adults are more likely to lose this social contact. 

Loneliness can have major effects on someone’s mental health, which in turn can affect them physically. The National Institute on Aging (NIH) reports that social isolation can lead to higher risks of heart disease, obesity, anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s disease and an overall weakened immune system. Many families turn to senior care to help provide for their senior family members to combat this rising loneliness in older adults. 

Why Companionship Is Essential for Seniors  

For many families, figuring out how to help lonely parents requires significant time not only in the care itself, but also in navigating the logistics of a changing situation. The best way to combat loneliness is to ensure someone is there to routinely visit and check on older adults, especially if they live alone. There are many benefits to companionship, including preventing all of the health risks listed above. Having people to rely on and talk to leads to overall happiness and a better quality of life. Companionship creates positive relationships and can make the later years of someone’s life some of their best. 

How to Help Lonely Elderly Family Members 

Supporting elderly family members requires both practical assistance and emotional understanding. Companionship and listening attentively to their stories and concerns is the best way to prevent loneliness and encourage comfort. Here are a few ways you can help your family member feel supported: 

• Assist them in finding a community beyond the home. As we age, we may overlook the interests and hobbies we once cherished. Whether it’s a senior choir group or a bird-watching club, help your family member discover a new community of like-minded people. 
• Find a hobby that you both enjoy and seek it out together. For instance, if you both love reading, head to the library or bookstore together to grab some new books.  
• Ask other family and friends to visit. The larger a social network is for a senior, the better for their mental health. Not only will they stay engaged, but they’ll appreciate the love and support immensely.  
• Plan activities outside the house. While socializing inside is great, many older adults often struggle with mobility and getting out of the house. Go for a walk, stop by a coffee shop, or enjoy local live music! 
• Meal prep together. If your loved one struggles to cook, why not make a day out of it? Help cook delicious meals that will set them up for the week to come. 

Seek Companion Care Assistance 

Not everyone lives close to their elderly relatives to care for them or they don’t have the capabilities to make frequent enough visits to check in and visit. FirstLight Home Care provides companion care services for seniors looking for companionship.  

Here’s what our caregivers can assist with:  

• Provide non-medical support, such as helping to prepare meals, with mobility, medication reminders, bathing, dressing and more. 
• A friendly face to talk to and build a positive relationship with.  

• Help elders maintain relationships with their current contacts, assisting with phone calls and visits while still maintaining their independence. 
• Provide transportation to take older adults on activities, from a trip to the botanical garden to a doctor’s appointment. 

Our companion care services can enrich the lives of lonely elderly family members, allowing them to maintain their existing routines and get more social. We have many different FirstLight Home Care locations ready to help you and your family. Reach out to your local office, and they can help you find a caregiver to provide companionship and support for your elderly loved ones.