Category: Blogs

Planning Ahead for Care During the Holidays

Posted on by Risa Margulies

The holiday season is a time for joy, traditions, and connections — but it can also bring extra demands, especially when caring for an older loved one. Whether you’re hosting family at home or traveling across the country, having a solid care plan in place can make all the difference in keeping the season stress-free.

Family & Nursing Care is here to help ensure your holiday plans run smoothly, so you can focus on celebrating with the people who matter most.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Finding caregivers during the busy holiday season can be challenging. “Families often face the challenge of organizing holiday plans while making sure older loved ones are safe and supported,” says Kelly Ann Sharp, Director of Client Services at Family & Nursing Care. “High demand for caregivers, combined with unpredictable winter weather and an increased risk of falls, can make last-minute planning stressful. That’s why starting early is so important.”

Family & Nursing Care provides 24/7, 365-days-a-year support, regardless of the time of year. Sharp and fellow Director of Client Services, Natalie Blickman, recommend contacting your Client Services Manager as soon as your holiday plans are set.

“Planning ahead not only guarantees availability,” adds Blickman. “It also allows caregivers to tailor their schedules, activities, and support to match you or your loved one’s holiday traditions and routines.”

Tailoring Care for the Season

Home care is never one-size-fits-all. Our Client Services Managers work closely with clients and families to identify the right type and amount of support for the holidays.

Some clients keep their regular care schedule, while others request extra help to cover travel or special events. Examples of holiday-specific care include:

  • Overnight care while a primary caregiver is away
  • Mobility or companionship support during gatherings
  • Transportation to and from holiday events
  • Assistance with packing and travel arrangements
  • Help with seasonal traditions, such as addressing holiday cards or preparing family recipes
  • Companionship to ensure your loved one isn’t alone

“The holidays should be a time of connection and joy,” Sharp says. “We want families to be able to relax and enjoy the moment, knowing their loved one is in the hands of a caregiver who feels like part of the family.”

Getting Started

Clients can contact their Client Services Manager to discuss holiday schedules, special requests, and any questions. For families new to home care, the holidays are often when needs become more visible. “During gatherings, relatives may notice an older loved one could use a little extra help — whether that’s with daily activities, mobility, or simply having someone to share the season with,” says Blickman. “That’s when we step in to make the process easy and worry-free.”

To learn more about Family & Nursing Care’s holiday services and year-round support, visit our Home Care Services webpage.

World Mental Health Day: Living with Purpose at Every Age

Posted on by Risa Margulies

On October 10, the world comes together to recognize World Mental Health Day, a time to reflect on the importance of mental well-being for people of all ages. With more than 1.4 billion people expected to be 60 or older by 2030, it is critical to acknowledge the unique mental health needs of older adults — and highlight the opportunities that come with aging.

The Connection Between Purpose and Mental Well-Being

While getting older may bring new challenges such as reduced mobility, chronic pain, or memory changes, it can also bring renewed purpose, joy, and deep personal fulfillment. Studies have consistently shown that having a sense of purpose is one of the most powerful factors for improving mental health. For older adults, this can mean:

  • Staying engaged in hobbies or creative outlets
  • Strengthening bonds with family and friends
  • Maintaining daily routines that bring structure and joy
  • Volunteering and supporting causes they are passionate about

Living with purpose helps older adults feel valued, connected, and empowered, which in turn supports both emotional and physical health.

The Role of Caregivers in Supporting Purpose

At Family & Nursing Care, we recognize that caregivers are essential partners in helping older adults live with purpose. Caregivers provide far more than assistance with daily activities, they also:

  • Offer companionship that nurtures meaningful conversations and connections.
  • Encourage engagement in activities and interests that bring happiness.
  • Support mobility and independence, making it easier for clients to participate in the things that matter most to them.
  • Create a sense of routine and stability that fosters comfort and peace of mind.

In many ways, caregivers help ensure that clients continue to experience fulfillment each day, even as life circumstances change.

Building a Future of Healthy Aging

Family & Nursing Care is committed to supporting older adults in living with meaning and dignity. To learn more about how caregivers can help clients maintain independence, engagement, and connection, visit our Mobility Assistance and Companionship webpages.

 

 

Return-to-Office Trends are Reshaping Caregiving at Home

Posted on by Risa Margulies

Across the country, the workplace is changing once again. Many companies — including federal agencies and private employers — are requiring employees to return to the office, either full time or on a hybrid schedule. For families who have been balancing work-from-home flexibility with caregiving responsibilities, this shift can create a ripple effect in their daily routines.

If you’ve been able to check in on an aging parent during lunch breaks or provide hands-on help throughout the day, the return to an in-office schedule may raise important questions:

  • Who will be there during the day?
  • Are current care arrangements still meeting your loved one’s needs?
  • Will schedules or levels of support need to change?

At Family & Nursing Care, we understand that life circumstances evolve — and your home care plan should evolve with them. Whether you need to extend care hours, modify schedules, or increase support, our team can respond quickly to ensure your loved one continues receiving the highest level of personalized care, even as your own workday changes.

“Life is full of transitions, and we want families to know we’re here for them in every situation,” said Kelly Salb, Vice President, Client Services. “Whether it’s adjusting to a return-to-office schedule or coming home from the hospital, our goal is for families to feel confident knowing we can adapt care as their needs change — so their loved one is always safe, comfortable, and supported at home.”

Every family’s situation is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating these changes. That’s why our team works closely with you to reassess needs, adapt schedules, and ensure you have the right support to meet your evolving circumstances.

If you’re facing a return to the office and wondering how it will impact your caregiving arrangements, we’re here to help you create a plan that works for everyone.

To learn more about our flexible services and how we can support your family during this or any transition, visit our Home Care Services webpage.

Caregiving Shines a Spotlight on America’s Care Crisis

Posted on by Risa Margulies

A powerful new PBS documentary, Caregiving, executive produced by Bradley Cooper, brings national attention to an often overlooked yet essential part of life in America: the care we provide for our loved ones. Through moving stories of both professional and unpaid family caregivers, the film reveals the emotional, physical, and financial challenges that come with caregiving — and the profound impact it has on families, communities, and our country as a whole.

The Growing Demand for Care

With 10,000 people turning 65 every day, and more than 5 million paid caregivers working in private homes and senior living communities across the U.S., the demand for high-quality care is rapidly growing. At the same time, between 53 million and 105 million adults — along with an estimated 5.4 million children — are providing unpaid care for family and friends. Caregiving sheds light on the fact that while the need for care is universal, the infrastructure to support it is still far from adequate.

“Caregiving is at the heart of what makes our communities strong,” says Sherry Peach-Walker, Vice President of Human Resources at Family & Nursing Care. “This documentary is a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a person — someone’s parent, spouse, or child — and that the work caregivers do every day is nothing short of extraordinary.”

Lessons from History

From the disability rights movement of the 1970s to the national spotlight during the COVID-19 pandemic, Caregiving traces how our country’s care systems have evolved — and the moments in history when they have fallen short. It highlights the resilience of caregivers who, despite systemic gaps, step up to ensure their loved ones can live with dignity and comfort.

How Family & Nursing Care Lives These Values

At Family & Nursing Care, these stories resonate deeply. For over 57 years, the company has been committed to providing access to caregivers that enable older adults to age safely in the place they love most — their own home. Whether it’s with daily activities, specialized dementia support, or companionship, professional caregivers make independence possible.

A Call for a Stronger Care Infrastructure

The documentary also calls for a stronger care infrastructure — one that includes fair wages for care workers and resources that help families navigate the caregiving journey. These are values we share at Family & Nursing Care, where caregivers are celebrated and supported to deliver the highest level of care.

We encourage you to watch Caregiving and share it with others to help keep the conversation going. The more we talk about caregiving, the closer we get to building the systems and support networks we all need. To learn more about Family & Nursing Care’s leading services, contact us or visit our Home Care Services webpage.

 

Beyond Recovery: How Home Care Supports Long-Term Heart Health for Older Adults

Posted on by dcadmin

A heart attack or diagnosis of heart disease is often life changing. But for older adults, the journey doesn’t end with hospital discharge or a short-term rehabilitation plan. Maintaining heart health over time requires ongoing lifestyle adjustments, emotional support, and daily routines that promote overall well-being.

That’s where home care plays a vital role — not just in recovery, but in helping aging adults lead healthier lives for the long haul.

Specialized Home Care: Bridging the Gap Between Treatment and Lifestyle

Cardiac rehabilitation and medical treatments are essential after a heart-related event, but sustaining those benefits depends largely on what happens at home. Professional caregivers provide critical, non-medical support to help older adults during the recovery process.

These services may include:

  • Medication reminders to help ensure everything is taken on time, as well as supporting blood pressure control and other key elements of heart care.
  • Heart-healthy meal preparation based on dietary guidelines like low sodium, low fat, low cholesterol, and nutrient-rich foods that can reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
  • Support with safe physical activity, from walking to light stretching, encouraging movement while monitoring signs of fatigue or overexertion.
  • Transportation to follow-up appointments, making it easier for older adults to stay engaged with their care team and cardiac rehab programs.

Supporting the Whole Person, Emotionally and Physically

After a heart attack, many people experience anxiety, depression, or fear about their health. This emotional toll can be especially challenging for older adults living alone or with limited support. A caregiver provides more than just practical assistance, they offer companionship and reassurance during a time of uncertainty.

Having a trusted presence in the home helps reduce stress, improve mood, and create a sense of security, all of which are important for long-term heart health.

A Preventive Approach to Heart Health with Home Care

For those living with chronic heart disease, home care is not only reactive, it’s preventive. Caregivers can help recognize early warning signs of complications, such as swelling, shortness of breath, or fatigue, and can escalate concerns to family members or medical providers before a crisis occurs.

This proactive support may help prevent hospital readmissions and support healthier outcomes over time.

Empowering Independence by Promoting Health

At Family & Nursing Care, we believe that aging adults should be empowered to live life on their terms, even after a major health event. Caregivers can provide personalized, compassionate care that supports long-term heart health by helping clients build and maintain the daily routines that keep them well.

Whether it’s preparing a heart-healthy meal, going for a short daily walk, or simply being there for encouragement, caregivers help clients take small, meaningful steps toward recovery and resilience.

If you or a loved one is managing heart disease or recovering from a heart attack, home care can make a lasting difference. Let us help you take the next step toward better heart health — and a better quality of life.

To learn more about home care for heart disease in aging adults, contact us or visit our Home Care and Heart Attack/Disease webpage.

Empowering Independence: How Home Care Supports Older Adults Managing Diabetes

Posted on by dcadmin

For older adults, managing diabetes often comes with added complexity. From mobility limitations to memory challenges to coexisting health concerns, older adults with diabetes may need extra support to stay safe and well. Yet for many, maintaining independence remains a top priority.

Managing Diabetes with Home Care for Aging Adults

That’s where home care can make all the difference. At Family & Nursing Care, we believe that managing a chronic condition like diabetes doesn’t have to mean surrendering your autonomy. With the right support, older adults can remain active participants in their own care — making informed choices, sticking to healthy routines, and living life on their terms. Professional caregivers can provide practical assistance and compassionate encouragement to help make that possible. Here’s how:

  • Supporting medication adherence: Many older adults take multiple medications and keeping track of what to take — and when — can be tricky. Missing doses or taking the wrong medication can have serious consequences, especially for those managing diabetes. Caregivers provide medication reminders to help ensure the right medications are taken on time, helping to reduce the risk of complications and giving families peace of mind.
  • Encouraging healthy eating habits: Nutrition is a cornerstone of diabetes management, but planning and preparing balanced meals can be physically demanding or mentally taxing. Caregivers can assist with grocery shopping, meal prep, and portion control, involving clients in the process whenever possible. That means older adults can enjoy nutritious meals without losing their sense of independence in the kitchen.
  • Fostering physical activity: Staying active is another important part of managing diabetes, and caregivers can help older adults remain safe on the move. Whether it’s taking a walk, following simple exercises at home, or engaging in a favorite physical hobby, caregivers provide both motivation and supervision. This helps clients stay consistent with their activity while minimizing the risk of falling or injury.
  • Teaming with families and health providers: Caregivers work in collaboration with families and medical teams, offering consistent updates and helping bridge communication. This coordinated approach ensures care aligns with medical advice and that any changes in condition are quickly recognized and addressed.

Helping Seniors with Diabetes Take Charge of Their Health

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean giving up control. With the right support, older adults can stay informed, active, independent, and empowered to manage their condition and therefore enjoy a higher quality of life.

At Family & Nursing Care, we’re proud to offer specialized support for those living with diabetes that prioritizes safety, dignity, and personal choice. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of help a day or round-the-clock support, our team is here to help you or your loved one thrive.

To learn more about our leading home care services, contact us or visit our Home Care and Diabetes webpage.

Caring Through Cancer: How Home Care Meets the Emotional and Practical Needs of Older Adults

Posted on by dcadmin

A cancer diagnosis doesn’t just affect the body, it can change everything. From the moment someone hears the word “cancer,” they are often thrust into a whirlwind of medical appointments, treatment plans, and uncertainty. But beyond the physical toll, cancer can profoundly impact emotional well-being, daily routines, and a person’s sense of independence.

While doctors and treatment teams focus on fighting the disease, home care plays a vital role in supporting the person. At Family & Nursing Care, we understand that compassionate, individualized support can make all the difference during this difficult time.

Emotional Strength Through Companionship

Cancer can be an isolating experience. Energy levels may drop, social activities may pause, and patients may feel overwhelmed or alone. Having a professional caregiver provides more than just help around the house; it offers consistent companionship, emotional reassurance, and a sense of normalcy.

Caregivers understand how to show up with empathy, listen without judgment, and help clients feel seen and supported every step of the way.

Professional Caregiving That Restores Dignity

Simple daily tasks can quickly become exhausting during cancer treatment. Professional caregivers ease this burden by assisting with activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping. This practical support not only preserves energy but also promotes dignity and autonomy.

In addition, caregivers can help manage nutrition needs — which can fluctuate during treatment — and provide safe transportation to and from medical appointments, ensuring continuity of care without the stress of logistics.

Tailored Home Care for the Journey Ahead

Every person’s cancer experience is unique, and so is the care they need. Family & Nursing Care connects clients with experienced caregivers who provide empathetic, responsive support tailored to individual preferences, routines, and health goals.

Whether someone needs a few hours of assistance each week or around-the-clock care, our team is ready to help wherever they are on their journey, from diagnosis through treatment, recovery, or end-of-life care.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Cancer treatment can feel all-consuming, but no one should have to face it without the right support system. Home care offers a powerful complement to medical treatment, helping individuals stay in the comfort of home while receiving the emotional and practical care they need.

Learn more about how Family & Nursing Care can support you or your loved one through a cancer diagnosis contact us or visiting our Home Care and Cancer webpage.

Pneumonia Recovery at Home: How Home Care Provides Critical Support for Older Adults

Posted on by dcadmin

Pneumonia is a serious health concern at any age, but for older adults, it can be especially dangerous — often resulting in hospitalization, complications, and a slow recovery. Once the initial medical treatment ends, what happens next is just as important. Recovery doesn’t stop at discharge, and that’s where home care steps in.

At Family & Nursing Care, we understand that healing from pneumonia takes more than rest. It requires attentive, consistent support to prevent setbacks and promote wellness in a safe, familiar environment.

Why Pneumonia Hits Harder in Older Adults

As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder to fight off infections like pneumonia. Chronic health conditions such as COPD, diabetes, or heart disease can further complicate recovery. In many cases, hospitalization is just the beginning of a long and challenging healing process.

How Home Care Makes a Difference in Recovery

Home care offers essential day-to-day support for those recovering from pneumonia that promotes healing and helps prevent hospital readmission. Professional caregivers can provide personalized assistance that addresses the unique needs of each client, including:

  • Medication Reminders: Ensuring antibiotics and other prescriptions are taken as directed
  • Hydration and Nutrition Support: Encouraging fluids and balanced meals to strengthen the body
  • Mobility Assistance: Helping reduce the risk of falls and keeping muscles active during recovery
  • Infection Control: Supporting hygiene and a clean environment to lower the risk of reinfection

This one-on-one support allows older adults to recover in the comfort of home while giving families peace of mind, reducing stress and enhancing well-being

A Safer, Stronger Recovery Starts Here

With the right care at home, older adults can focus on regaining strength and independence. Family & Nursing Care is here to help every step of the way.

To learn more about our pneumonia recovery services, contact us or visit our Home Care and Pneumonia webpage.

Home Care and the New Healthcare Ecosystem: Reducing Readmissions and Supporting Aging in Place

Posted on by Risa Margulies

As the healthcare system continues to shift toward at-home programs, home care is becoming an indispensable partner in improving outcomes. From easing transitions after hospitalization to helping older adults remain safely at home, home care plays a critical role in ensuring continuity, stability, and dignity for seniors — while also alleviating strain on hospitals and long-term care settings.

At Family & Nursing Care, we are proud to be a trusted extension of the healthcare ecosystem, supporting providers and families alike in the shared goal of healthier aging.

The Readmission Challenge

Hospital readmissions are a major concern for providers nationwide. Under Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines, hospitals can face penalties for high 30-day readmission rates, particularly for conditions such as heart failure, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

From time to time, patients are discharged home without sufficient support, and they can experience complications — ranging from medication mismanagement to falls or worsening chronic symptoms. These setbacks can lead to emergency room visits and readmissions, disrupting recovery and adding cost to the system.

The Role of Home Care in Post-Acute Success

Home care acts as a vital safety net for patients transitioning from the hospital to home. Professional caregivers help bridge the gap between clinical care and everyday living by providing:

  • Medication reminders to support adherence to discharge instructions.
  • Assistance with mobility and fall prevention to keep the home environment safe.
  • Meal preparation and hydration to promote strength and healing.
  • Transportation to follow-up appointments to ensure continuity of care.
  • Daily check-ins to identify early warning signs of health issues.

By working in concert with discharge planners and healthcare teams, home care reduces family caretaker burden, prevents complications, and gives clients the best possible chance at a full and lasting recovery.

Integrating with the Broader Care Ecosystem

Home care’s impact extends beyond the post-hospital setting. For senior living communities, supplemental in-home care can help residents remain in place during recovery or health setbacks, minimizing the need for moves to higher levels of care. This continuity is not only reassuring for residents and families but also communities.

Aging Life Care Professionals also benefit from trusted home care partnerships. As older adults’ needs change, flexible caregiver support ensures stability. Home care services can be adjusted in real time, providing a customized care experience that evolves alongside the client.

Better Outcomes

The data is clear: when home care is part of the equation, outcomes improve. Studies consistently show that patients who receive home care following discharge have:

  • Lower hospital readmission rates
  • Higher levels of satisfaction
  • Fewer emergency room visits

In addition to reducing costs for hospitals, home care empowers older adults to remain in the comfort of their homes — improving quality of life and reinforcing autonomy.

Your Partner in Care Transitions

At Family & Nursing Care, we work closely with senior care professionals to connect older adults and their families with fast, flexible, and high-quality caregiver support. Whether clients need short-term recovery assistance or long-term care to age in place, we’re ready to help with a smooth, supported transition home — so they can stay there.

To learn more about how we partner with professionals to help older adults maintain independence from the comfort of their own homes, visit our Professional Partnerships webpage.