“I did not know they could do that.” I have heard this statement numerous times from a family member of a client. In fact, I have heard that expression so often that it caused me to think about the reason why so many senior adults are underestimated. I think many will agree that our current society has failed to give senior adults the proper respect and attention that they so rightly deserve. Not everyone will be granted the opportunity to become a senior adult. Those individuals that reach this status have, without a doubt, been through both good and difficult times in their lives. Many seniors have an abundance of wisdom and love to share with others. Society often dismisses and disregards the goals and needs of seniors. I have witnessed this in many elements of society today.
What is the one thing that has helped many of our clients reach and exceed their goals? I believe that JoyCARE engages a secret weapon to help our clients. This secret weapon is used to fight and overcome the enemy of loneliness and depression. Webster’s dictionary defines the word secret as “something hidden or unexplained; a mystery.” Webster’s defines the word weapon as “something used to injure, defeat, or destroy.” It is my opinion that focused, uninterrupted, personal attention given to an individual is a secret weapon in helping them defeat negative feelings. This focused attention on their goals and their preferences encourages them to work towards and often achieve their goals.
It makes me feel good when I hear a family member say to me, “I did not know my mom could walk that far.” It is encouraging to me when I hear, “I have not heard my dad laugh in years like I just witnessed him doing with you.” I also love to hear things like, “I had no idea my aunt could still play the piano.” All of these goals were met, in large part, because someone connected with them, believed in them, and encouraged them. Someone made the decision to not look at their cell phone, but instead look into the eyes of another and actually listen and connect on a human level. God’s word teaches us to build others up. In Romans 15:2 it states, “Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.”
Maybe in this new year, JoyCARE, is the secret weapon your loved one needs to help them face the daily battles of life. If you would like to find out more about JoyCARE please call Jennifer Joy Bird at (601) 573-6344. Continue reading to find out more about this valuable service.
JoyCARE SERVICES PROVIDED:
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 15 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 at (601) 573-6344 to learn more about this unique service.
