I am working diligently on networking to get out the services I offer.  I hope to dive into the social network and request you all share my site and name to colleagues, and so on with in your own online venues. I am forging ahead to learn about facebook, twitter and blogging. They say learning new skills keeps the brain flexible. Not only will you be helping me find work but you will help carve out new friendships and mentor relationships for elders.

The thing about aging , is that relationships circles shrink. Others pass on, or their infirmities keep them isolated, some friends become victims of dementia. A care giver can substitute, become a link to offer friendship and offer sincere opportunities to the elder to share their life experiences and every day life blessings. I love this type of interaction. It can create a bridge from lonesome to mentor-ship. Teach me how you made potato salad, tell me stories of holiday traditions while I boil potatoes and fold laundry. These are the connections you can help make by mentioning my name.

I am often hired by the adult children of the elderly. They may be pretty darn independent but rely on their kids for outreach needs etc. Spread the word for me to your co-workers, they may need my services for a elder in their life. thanks.

I work as an independent care giver. That means I have no boss, no one stands between me and the client. We negotiate the job and it's description. I am a non-medical care giver. I am not a nurse. I can be shown how to perform needed tasks. I have good eyes and can see what else needs to be done. I won't stop with the job description. I like to keep busy and find mutual things to do with my client to keep them engaged in life. I strive to involve them in tasks I do, however I do not insist they do so. I  can work quickly and competently to get back to client interaction they are looking forward to, fun stuff. My time with a elder client includes both chores and companionship. If necessary I build that companionship time into my chore routine. I have had clients who did not want companionship, I can respect that and attempt to build in simple acts of kindness and step back.
  The most important thing to me is having a honest relationship where the client leads the way. I do need to develop a bond where communication can flourish so I can listen and the elder can express their wishes.

    Home care and assistance costs less then assisted living / nursing home care. I find many elders want to stay in familiar surroundings and personal belongings. There are advantages to moving to assisted living for many, however for those who want to live out their days at home, I can help you do that. I do not however have back up, if I am sick or need personal time I do not have a substitute to send in my place. I try to make up time I miss and do not miss very much work.

 I have worked for a service and there are many good reasons to hire a reputable one. The one i began working for and was trained by was Home Instead. They are great people and very responsive to client needs and offer a lot of security.
   The biggest problem for going through one is the cost. They have to charge more to cover their overhead: pay employees, train employees, insurance etc... The best thing is the back up they offer, they will send in a substitute when your care giver is sick or needs personal time. Also they make it very easy to cancel care giver service for a specific time if you give 24 hr notice. This can help keep the costs down for the client.

A care giver can become a god send, and a good friend. It is important that care giver and client establish a fondness for one another. Choose one with care. All the  care givers I know are trustworthy kind loving people. I am!
Margaret

I participated in the farmers market yesterday. I made a beautiful table skirt and took a vase of flowers. I had my hand work along, (i don't like to be idle). I talked to several people who were care giving for a family member full time. One young woman had no respite  help, often family members do not help out or not every effectively when they do. It's kind of like going away leaving your partner and kids, coming home and having all the laundry, dishes to do, garden to water etc. waiting for you only more. The other problem we discussed was the elder can get very particuliar about who they will allow to help them. Often they won't venture out when the opportunity arrises, so the burden on the main care giver gets even heavier. There are programs and support groups available. Just being able to share your story with others and realizing you are not alone, your feelings are not bad and you are really doing a great job care giving for your loved one can make a BIG difference. Start your own support group in your area, you'll be surprised how many people will thank you. Perhaps a collective day care for elders to get to take a break and provide inter action for your loved one at the same time. I am a big believer in getting things going. If it doesn't  exist, begin. It can be helpful to share with your loved one that you need some time. If you don't take care of your self you can only keep going until you are exhausted or get sick or hurt physically. Learn to delegate with family members, specificaly communicate what needs to be done. Sometimes others don't step up to the plate or simply don't know what to do, or maybe they don't want to offend by washing the kitchen floor while sitting with Dad while your out. Communicating in a non judgmental manner is very important.

I enjoyed my afternoon at the market. I choose to network with the people of my comminity. It's been advised that i network with social workers etc. Very good advise, how ever I want to work for my client and not the establishment. Most times the client knows what they need and what they feel comfortable with. Insurance and libality fear has affected the quality of care too much. I don't choice to live and interact on fear based life. Mindful living is about living now and finding acceptance for where we are and joy in these moments.

This is a place to share thoughts and ways of being. It's a new experience for me, bear with me as I discover how it works. Then we can get to know one another and share meaningful thoughts.

I feel strongly about pro choice for elders. Independent living is a must for some of us. We accept the risks. We don't choose to live to sooth someone else's fears.  Golly, we made it this far.  I do not want to live in an institution, ever. I am honored to assist others live the life they choose.