How can I afford a Care Advisor?

Anyone can afford an Assisted Living Locator Care Advisor. That’s because we are paid only when we help you make a decision about your senior’s living location and we are paid by the location you choose. And because we only receive payment when you’re paying the Care Community directly, we’ll also put you in touch with your state’s social service network to make sure that you receive the proper state support in the event that you are unable to pay for senior care and housing yourself.

What can a Care Advisor help me with?

An Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor specializes in knowing your senior housing and in home care options, but via their referral network they can connect you with state resources in the event that you need to consider state resources to finance and secure senior housing, as well as a wide variety of specialists who focus on some aspect of the senior services industry- Eldercare Attorneys, Financial Specialists, Real Estate Agents, Downsizing Specialists, Home Health Experts, and just about any other senior service need you can think of.

Who is my Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor?

Glad you asked. This site gives you a number of ways to find your local Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor. Pick one and we’ll either get them on the phone, or make sure that they contact you in a timely fashion. Click here to get to our Care Advisor page.

How are Care Advisors trained?

Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisors are vetted for the right set of skills before they ever even buy a franchise. Once they do, we provide comprehensive initial training and a 13 week “in community” onboarding process. We ask all Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisors to become Certified Senior Advisors, a nationwide accreditation program that provides additional industry specific knowledge. Care Advisors also participate in continuing education provided by us and provided by local senior oriented industry associations to ensure that they understand the latest tools, techniques and industry rules and regulations to help you navigate the senior experience.

What does a Care Advisor do?

An Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor spends time at each of the communities and homes in your local area. They understand how well the community is performing against state standards and they understand what the community is good at- in short, they understand what isn’t in the community’s glossy brochure. An Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor networks to ensure that they have a broad array of qualified resource team members that they can call on to help deal with challenges beyond senior housing and care, which is their own area of expertise. And Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisors spend time with families and seniors. They can’t help if they don’t know and understand you and your family. Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisors have a structured way to identify important needs that you and your senior have, which they then use to match you to the best community choices or the best members of their resource network that can meet your needs.

Who is Assisted Living Locators®?

A franchise business based in Arizona, with local owners and operators across the US. Our Care Advisors bring problem solving skills and compassion to your local senior community, and we supply the training, processes and industry knowledge they need to provide you with the help you want.

Where are your Care Advisors located?

Everywhere. If we don’t have a Care Advisor yet in your local area, we’ll find you an affiliate advisor who can help. But every month we train more Care Advisors to meet the growing needs of seniors in every community across the US. You can find your local Care Advisor by using the tools on this website. And because we are nationwide, we can help you in your town or in towns all across the US.

When should I contact an Assisted Living Locators® Care Advisor?

Since Care Advisors understand the entire range of living options available to seniors, any family with a senior over 55 can benefit from their expertise. Use us to understand your independent living options if your senior wants more time for leisure pursuits after 55. Use us especially when you are concerned about the safety or health of your senior loved one. And it’s critically important that you reach out to us if your senior is in the hospital or rehabilitation facility so that we help you navigate the immediate next health care and housing steps that must be taken, giving you a voice in how the health care and insurance systems in your state manage your senior’s needs.

Planning the Perfect Picnic: Senior-Friendly Foods and Activities

By Allison Green

Published June 6, 2024

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Enjoying a picnic outdoors is a wonderful way for people of all ages to connect with nature and each other, and this is especially true for seniors. When planning such an outing, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your senior loved ones to ensure they can participate comfortably and safely.

This blog is designed to help you choose the perfect location, prepare suitable meals, and organize enjoyable activities that cater specifically to seniors. With careful planning and thoughtful consideration, you can create an inclusive and delightful picnic experience that enhances the well-being and enjoyment of your elderly loved ones.

Choosing the Right Location

When planning a picnic with elderly loved ones, the choice of location is paramount. It’s crucial to select a spot that is not only beautiful but also practical for seniors, ensuring they can enjoy the day with ease and comfort.

Accessibility

One of the key factors to consider is accessibility. Opt for locations that are senior-friendly, such as parks with well-maintained, paved paths that are easy for walking or maneuvering wheelchairs. It’s also beneficial to choose picnic areas close to parking lots to minimize the distance seniors need to walk. Some parks even offer transport services from parking areas to picnic spots, which can be a great help for those with limited mobility.

Shade

Another important consideration is the availability of shade. Outdoor settings can quickly become uncomfortable and even hazardous under the direct sun, particularly for seniors who may be more susceptible to heat strokeheatstroke or dehydration. Look for spots under trees or pavilions where there is plenty of shade. This will not only protect seniors from excessive sun exposure but also create a cooler, more pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy the day.

Senior-Friendly Picnic Foods

A picnic is not just about the location; it’s also about enjoying great food. When planning a picnic for seniors, it’s essential to consider dietary needs and preferences to ensure everyone has a delightful and comfortable dining experience.

Easy-to-Eat Finger Foods: Finger foods are ideal for picnics as they are easy to handle and create minimal mess. Consider packing a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and pinwheel slices that are not only tasty but also easy to eat. Include cut-up fruits and vegetables, cheese and crackers, and bite-sized desserts like mini cupcakes or cookies. Opting for these types of foods can make the meal more enjoyable for seniors who may have difficulty with utensils or have dental issues.

Portion Sizes: It’s also wise to consider the portion sizes, offering smaller, manageable amounts that are easy to eat. This helps prevent overeating, which can lead to discomfort, especially during outdoor activities where immediate rest might not be an option.

Hydration: Hydration is crucial, particularly for seniors, who may be less aware of their hydration needs. Ensure you bring plenty of water along with options like herbal iced teas or fruit-infused waters that are appealing and can encourage frequent drinking. These beverages provide a refreshing way to stay hydrated without the added sugars of commercial drinks.

Avoiding Alcohol and Caffeine: It is advisable to limit beverages that contain alcohol and caffeine at a senior-friendly picnic. Both can act as diuretics, contributing to dehydration, which can be particularly risky for seniors in an outdoor setting.

Low-Sodium Options: Choosing low-sodium foods is another critical factor for a senior-friendly menu. High sodium intake can lead to elevated blood pressure and water retention, posing health risks. Opt for low-sodium snack options like unsalted nuts and fresh fruits. When preparing meals, like salads or grilled meats, keep added salt to a minimum and use herbs and spices for flavoring instead.

Senior-Friendly Picnic Activities

Planning activities for a picnic with seniors is just as important as choosing the right foods. Activities should be engaging, provide light physical exercise, and cater to the mobility and energy levels of older adults. Here are some senior-friendly activities that can make a picnic more enjoyable and inclusive.

Gentle Outdoor Games

Incorporate low-impact games that are easy on the joints and suitable for varying mobility levels, such as bocce ball, horseshoes, or bean bag toss. These games provide gentle physical activity, which is beneficial for maintaining joint flexibility and muscle strength. Additionally, participating in these activities can boost mood and enhance social interaction, making the picnic a lively and engaging event for your senior loved ones.

Nature Walks

Plan for scenic strolls around the picnic area. Walking at a leisurely pace allows seniors to enjoy the beauty of nature, which can be incredibly soothing and rejuvenating. For those interested in wildlife, birdwatching can be a delightful activity. Encourage bringing along binoculars and a bird identification guide to turn a simple walk into an exciting exploration of nature’s diversity.

Relaxation Stations

Not all activities need to be physical. Set up areas where seniors can relax and enjoy the day at their own pace. Provide comfortable seating options like folding chairs or cushioned picnic blankets to create relaxation zones. These areas are perfect for seniors to unwind, chat with others, or simply enjoy the peaceful outdoor setting.

Reading Corner

For those who prefer quieter activities, a reading corner can be a wonderful addition. Equip this space with a selection of books or magazines. This provides a tranquil retreat for seniors to lose themselves in a good story or catch up on latest articles, offering mental stimulation and a relaxing pastime during the picnic.

Safety Considerations

When organizing a picnic, especially for seniors, safety is a paramount concern. The outdoor environment, while enriching, can pose various risks if not adequately prepared for. Here are essential safety considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable picnic experience for them:

Sun Protection: Direct sunlight and UV exposure can be particularly hazardous to seniors, who may have more sensitive skin and a higher risk of heat-related illnesses. It’s crucial to remind everyone attending the picnic to bring and use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect against sunburn. Additionally, wearing wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses can provide extra protection and comfort, helping to prevent heat strokeheatstroke and eye damage. Seniors have a higher risk of skin cancer due to prolonged sun exposure throughout their lives.
Insect Repellent: Insects can not only be a nuisance but also pose health risks, especially in areas known for high mosquito activity. Using insect repellent can help protect against bites that could lead to discomfort or diseases such as West Nile Virus. Ensure that the repellent is suitable for seniors, particularly those with sensitive skin, and consider natural alternatives if chemical repellents are a concern.
First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, and it’s always best to be prepared. A basic first aid kit should be on hand at any picnic. This kit should include essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any specific medications that attendees may require urgently. It’s also wise to include items like tweezers for tick removal and ice packs for minor bumps or sprains.

In conclusion, when planning a picnic for elderly loved ones, it’s crucial to choose accessible locations with ample shade, provide easy-to-eat foods that meet dietary needs, and organize gentle activities suitable for all mobility levels. These steps ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for seniors. We encourage you to share your own experiences and tips in the comments section to help others in our community.

Planning the Perfect Picnic: Senior-Friendly Foods and Activities