Is hearing a problem for you?

Many of our clients have hearing issues; not a real surprise as over 30% of 65+ year-olds have measurable hearing loss. While they can be reassured when receiving an emergency help button, they become uneasy when they have difficulty understanding the Call Center operator’s voice. Many of our personal medical alarm clients are initially troubled [...]

New adult respite service in northern Michigan

My friend Vicki Collins, with the Oceana County Council on Aging, informed me yesterday of a new adult respite service called “Our Friend’s House”. It is located in Hart, Michigan. Their mission is to ‘..provide exceptional adult day care in a home-like, safe, and welcoming setting; with activities provided by professional and compassionate staff”. This [...]

Senior Citizen Lip Dub

Grand Rapids’ local Clark Retirement Community produced a sweet lip-dub video in July 2011. The link is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ7-n930zJo. The video simply underscores how expectations for our elders need to change. The stars of this video are independent but not without their medical issues. As Baby Boomers begin to move into senior housing, you can expect many [...]

Hospice is a consoling alternative to hospitals

Hospice services are becoming increasing prevalent around the country. When you face an imminent end-of-life situation, hospice services provide medical and social support to enable one’s final days to be spent comfortably, and often, at home. Look up your local hospice providers (there may be more than one in your community) and learn more about [...]

so what’s new for 2011

So many things are hopping around, looking for daylight, in the senior home technology field. A few things for you to watch for: Cell phone manufacturers are paying attention to the senior market after all. The Jitterbug and others continue to evolve in ways that make sense for the senior user; larger buttons and louder [...]

A recent letter from a client’s daughter…

It’s always exciting to know first-hand when your company really hits the mark. Here are a few comments from a recent letter sent to us by Marianne, a client’s daughter: “SafeCall saved my mother a night of excruciating pain the night she fell. You provide an awesome service. They (SafeCall’s operators) treat you like family. [...]

Health Fair this week

SafeCall will be at the Calvary Church Health Expo on September 30, 2010.

Technology vs. human touch

There is healthy skepticism over the role of technology in serving our aging loved ones. Let’s not confuse technology with human connections.

Long Term Care Insurance: Is it for you?

Professionally, I have been in thousands of homes. Many of my clients receive Medicaid benefits. This is what I’ve learned: when someone else is paying your long-term care bill, you receive care that fits The Program, not your wishes.

Moving…it’s not just getting from one home to another

Moving a parent is an emotionally charged process. Here are a few planning and moving tips that will ensure a successful relocation.