Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation?

Have you ever heard of the term "Sandwich Generation"?  This generation is the group that is

working to raise a family while worrying about the well being of an older relative.  If you fall into this category, we have a few tips to help deal with the pressure you feel as you're trying to maintain your lifestyle:

1) Don't try to do everything.  There's only so much of you to go around! For instance, it's not uncommon for parents to compromise the relationship with children when caring for a parent.  If you're doing this, you're over-committing.
2) Don't be afraid to ask for help.  While most people feel as if they are failing or letting someone down when asking for assistance, the reality is that you're taking moves that will improve the situation for everyone. Arranging for meals to be delivered to elder relatives, seeking out homemakers or home care services are examples of available options.
3) Research both Child & Adult Care options.  There is usually a wide variety of choices available in your community.  Ask friends and co-workers for referrals, and don't forget to inquire with local churches.
4) Talk to your employer about flex time or alternative work arrangements. Don't shy away from this option. Employers value good employees, and making a change to retain those workers is not uncommon.

If you need help getting started with these options, give us a call.  We'll be happy help with information that can assist you with your care-giving challenges.  You can also visit our website for additional online information. Simply click here to view our resources page.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Seniors & Driving

About a year ago, we listed a post that featured a great video on Seniors & Driving.  The video was entertaining, and provided some very succinct information on the topic.  If you missed it, you can watch it again by clicking here.  It's well worth viewing! With this in mind we'd like to offer some warning signs that you notice that might require you to take action on this problem:
 
    Having more than one at-fault accident in a year.
    Unexplained scratches or dents.
    Tickets for unsafe driving.
    Difficulty reading road signs.
    Getting lost or easily confused.
    Medical treatment for the eyes or ears.

Often, family members will observe an elderly relative's driving ability decline without knowing what to do.  It's a sensitive subject to approach!  Sometimes you may be able to get a family doctor, counselor, social worker, etc., to issue a "no more driving" prescription.  Hearing the news from a professional can soften the blow and make following the advice easier.  Waiting until an accident happens is the worst approach, so be proactive try to lead the way.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Family Care Fair, May 3rd, Huntersville NC

Join Home Helpers at the ninth annual Family Care Fair from 10am to 2pm – a day of free fun for the

entire family.  Located at Novant Health Huntersville (formerly Visit Home Helpers at Novant Health Family Care FairPresbyterian Hospital) on Gilead Rd. It’s just one more way we’re with you on every step of your health care journey. Stop by our booth and say HI!  We hope to see you there.

Activities include:
- Free health screenings
- Exercise demonstrations
- Health and safety information
- Moon bounce
- Healthy refreshments
- Giveaways (first come, first served–so join us early)

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!