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| INAUGURAL ISSUE |
JANUARY 2009 | |
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Dear Friend:
Happy New Year and welcome to our first e-newsletter.
With "Home Care Today" we want to give you upbeat, easy-to-read and helpful information. We'll offer tips on making the most of life and home--whether you're 29, 49 or 79--a caregiver, social worker or someone who is considering home care. Our mini-article on "A Caregiver's New Year 's Resolution" will hopefully help you start 2009 right!
Each issue will also have a feature about the home care industry. For January, we're reprinting a Caregiver Q&A with Derrick Merchant, administrator for Alternative Home Care for Seniors (AHCS). When I interviewed Derrick for this piece back in May, I found his answers to be informative and refreshing. I think you will, too.
If you have ideas or want to contribute to future issues, please let me know.
Be well,
Sharna Fulton , Marketing Director
P.S. One of the best parts of my job is getting to know people in our community. Eno and I met at the Gwinnett County Senior Health Fair. She's heading back to Nigeria soon and will be missed by many. |
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OUR GIFT TO YOU: FREE WOMEN'S MONTHLY PLANNER. This book has valuable health care tips and will help you plan your year. If you'd like us to put one in the mail to you, please send an email with your address to: sharna@bellsouth.net Offer good while supply lasts.
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A Caregiver's New Year's Resolution. Put Yourself First!
It's only natural. As a person who cares for others, it's easy to put everyone else's needs ahead of your own. But thinking of yourself first often benefits others in the long run. It helps you re-energize and become more self aware of all the special things that make you YOU. Here are a few reminders to help relieve stress, warm-up and welcome in your new year. |
- Get a manicure. Show off those lovely helping hands of yours.
- Trim the tresses. A new coif does wonders for one's mood.
- Bubble up the bath. Bring candles, a CD and cup of tea.
- Don those woolie gifts from Santa and go for a walk. Work up to 3 times a week if you can. It's good for your health and it'll make you happy. (Make sure to check with your doctor first.
- Meet your most upbeat friend at a local cafe. Buy him/her a latte. Then plan your next visit and let them treat you next time.
- Start an on-line journal (blog). It's free. And there are many formats to choose from and personalize. http://wordpress.com/
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 Caregiver Q&A with Derrick Merchant
Q: You've (co-)owned your agency for over seven years. What do you attribute your success in the home healthcare provider industry?
We've been able to grow and nurture a wonderful network of caregivers. We have over 100 CNA's on our roster right now.
Q: How did you grow your network of caregivers?
Over time, word of mouth leads them to us. The ability to retain their services is key. We're here at all times to address their questions and concerns. We also create accountability for them.
Q: Give an example of how you create accountability.
Before we assign a case, we have them call the client in order to establish a relationship. This helps them take responsibility right away for their assignment. We also communicate with them before the weekend and ask them things like 'How's your car working' and 'Do you have a babysitter lined up'?
Q: What exactly is a CNA? What unique qualities do they have?
Merchant: The job of a certified nursing assistant is challenging both physically and psychologically. A CNA helps with a variety of things depending on the situation-housekeeping, errands, companionship, lifting the client in and out of bed, preparing meals, personal hygiene.
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It's 3 AM and you need home care for mom. But who's going to pick-up the phone?
We will, of course. It's our 24/7 SafetyNET™. That means no matter what time or what day it is, you'll always get someone to help you with your home care questions. We often can place a caregiver within 12 hours as well. Just call us.
http://www.alternativeforseniors.net/contact-us
770-736-7977
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In late October, we (AHCS) began our 1st Annual "Sweaters for Seniors" 250+ knit items were collected and distributed before the holldays to: Briarcliff Haven, Golden Living in Decatur and Lawrenceville, Life Care Center of Gwinnett and Lawrenceville, Laurel Baye, Gwinnett Extended Care, Emory Rehab and Gwinnett County Senior Services.
Major thanks to:
CBS 46 Better Mornings
The Galloway School.
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| Upcoming Events |
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Snellville Senior Center Valentine's Dance, February 12.
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