It is summertime in the south, and that means it is as hot as a firecracker on the Fourth of July. When I think about summer, I cannot help but think about the Fourth of July. During the American Revolution, the legal separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain occurred. There are fancy fireworks, patriotic parades, and celebratory cookouts held all over our nation as we celebrate the United States’ independence from Great Britain in 1776. Freedom is never free. I am so thankful for all of the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much so that we may live in America.
Reflecting on the Fourth of July causes me to think about our independence as a nation. I also reflect upon my independence as an individual. Maintaining independence is something all of us strive to do on a daily basis. It takes discipline to maintain a healthy lifestyle in all areas including diet, exercise, mental alertness, and socialization. In fact, helping senior adults to maintain their independence and their highest quality of life motivated me to create JoyCARE.
Do you know a senior adult that could use a little help with promoting a more active lifestyle? Maybe you know someone who is having trouble getting around in their home. They may have difficulty getting up from chairs or other surfaces. They could likely benefit from some strengthening and balance exercises. Do you know someone who has become more confused and forgetful lately? They could likely benefit from someone working with them on memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Do you know someone who has lost their motivation and is more hopeless and depressed than they used to be? They could likely benefit from some companionship and meaningful conversation.
As we collectively celebrate our nation’s independence on the Fourth of July, may we remember to look around us and notice if there are those who are struggling to maintain their personal independence.
This may remind you of a family member, a neighbor, a friend, or even yourself. If you would like to learn more about this unique service, please call JoyCARE at (601) 573-6344. Please continue reading to learn more about the many benefits of JoyCARE.
Life Skills
• Feeding
• Grooming (taking care of nails and hair, applying makeup, and maintaining proper oral care)
• Dressing tasks
• Educating clients in safety
• Light cooking
• Managing home tasks
Promotion of an Active Lifestyle
• Encouraging clients to get up and be active
• Taking clients on walks
• Gentle exercises
• Engaging clients in activities to encourage movement
• Planting flowers and simple gardening
Mental Alertness
• Playing cards and using activities to help increase attention, concentration, problem solving, alertness, sequencing, and memory
• Engaging in games to stimulate thought processes and provide interaction with others
• Helping clients adjust to their current living environment
Companionship
• Assisting with letter writing
• Reading books, magazines, etc.
• Listening and engaging client in meaningful conversation
• Reminiscing
• Improving self-esteem through crafts and hobbies
Organization
• Eliminating clutter to reduce tripping hazard
• Sorting and filing mail
• Managing trash and throwing away junk mail
• Writing appointments on calendar
• Organizing closets and drawers
Education
• Education with emphasis on fall prevention
• Education including ways to simplify tasks and conserve energy
JoyCARE, Inc. is unique because we offer the benefits of skilled individuals who provide attention and services that maximize the independence and safety of our clients. Every session is individualized to help each client meet his or her personal goals. JoyCARE, Inc. strives to keep clients as active and mentally alert as possible. While we are not a therapy service, we are much more than a traditional sitter service. JoyCARE, Inc. can help maintain the emotional well-being of our clients and help improve quality of life
I am a licensed and registered Occupational Therapist with more than fifteen years’ experience treating the geriatric population. Upon graduation from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, I began my career at Methodist Rehabilitation Center where I gained experience treating victims of strokes and brain injuries, orthopedic surgery cases with emphasis on hip and knee replacements, amputees, and clients with generalized weakness. Following my tenure at MRC, I found my true passion caring for the geriatric population in various assisted living facilities. I have served as an Occupational Therapist and a Director of Rehabilitation Services. I am committed to providing quality, individualized care that enhances the lives of those I serve.
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Could you or someone you know benefit from JoyCARE? Please call Jennifer Joy Bird at (601) 573-6344 for more information.
