SYNERGYHomeCare.com SPRING 2019
BEAUTY OF SPRING
AGING: HOW TO KEEP YOUR SLEEP HEALTHY
BEAUTY OF SPRING There’s something about seeing sun for the first time after months of ‘wintry mix’ that revs up mood and makes us more mentally sharp and open-minded, states an article in The Atlantic.
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pringtime generally brings an improvement to mood and emotion. People who are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) begin to regain themselves. The days get longer, temperatures become comfortable, and the idea of being outside becomes significantly more inviting. As winter gives way to spring, beauty and color become a significant part of everyday life. An important part of improving mood during spring is to seek opportunities to incorporate the season into routines.
One way of accomplishing this is to get outside. A simple stroll through the front yard reveals numerous sources of both color and beauty. Watching spring animals, such as birds, move around is a reminder of the vibrancy of life. Seeing new leaves on trees and colored petals on flowers can help to uplift spirits and encourage positivity. The impact of color can be beneficial, especially at the end of winter. The Toronto Sun points out that “research on the psychology of colour consistently demonstrates that colours evoke emotional, behavioural and physical responses.” Spring colors are a reminder of life and serve to strengthen mental and emotional health. For those who aren’t able to get out and enjoy spring, bringing beauty and color inside is a solid alternative. Most rooms in buildings are made of neutral colors by default, so filling those rooms
with plants, even artificial ones, and other types of spring reminders can still be highly beneficial. According to Psychology Today, “humans are more comfortable in spaces with color than in those without.” By bringing color and beauty indoors, people who are restricted to the home can enjoy the benefits of spring. In addition to plants, artwork of varying styles can be soothing and inspiring, helping to maintain a high quality of life for those who are stuck indoors.
Another way to make color a part of the routine, for those who can go out as well as those who have to stay in, is to plan some adult coloring time. In a recent blog post, we wrote, “aside from mental health benefits, adult coloring has given people a fun way to disconnect from technology and be present in their own moment. This allows people to open up creatively, feel the joy of creating, and be inspired to create more.” The coming of spring is associated with the emergence of colors and awakening from the tired greys of winter. Whether indoors or outdoors, bringing color into the routine, through day trips, rearranging rooms, or simply planning a relaxing coloring session, can help improve mental and emotional health, beginning with spring and carrying throughout the year. Sources: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/03/how-spring-opens-the-mind/284572/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/people-places-and-things/201504/the-surprising-effect-color-your-mind-and-mood https://torontosun.com/2012/09/19/how-colours-affect-mood-performance/wcm/16d162fe-fd6e-4440-8f9f-c2b846f79df3 https://www.synergyhomecare.com/blog/posts/2019/march/adult-coloring-and-benefits-of-art-therapy/
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AGING: HOW TO KEEP YOUR SLEEP HEALTHY M any things change as we age. Family structures change, friendships change, our bodies change, and so do our minds. Sometimes the changes make life better, and sometimes they bring more challenges. For seniors, the changes that happen can be frustrating and difficult to deal with. One area that many struggle with is getting good sleep. To understand how to get good sleep, it’s important to understand what good sleep looks like. What Is The “Right” Amount Of Sleep? There really is no “right” amount of sleep. The amount of sleep you need is unique to you and what your body is going through. For adults, the most common answer you hear to that question is “between 7 to 9 hours”, but many seniors will
sleep less hours and wake up feeling refreshed. Also, if your body has been fighting illness, it may take more sleep to feel refreshed. Listen to your body and try to set yourself on a schedule. If your body is on a routine, it is easier to wake up and fall asleep. Develop Good Sleep Habits Sleeping is sleeping, yes. But there are things you can do before you lay down so that your body (and mind) have an easier time falling asleep and staying asleep. Avoid napping during the day – Your body can get thrown off by day naps, so avoid them if you can and help your body get a full night’s rest. No phones in the bedroom – If you do want your
phone in the bedroom, turn your notifications off and move your phone out of reach. Phones can be a distraction and keep you from falling asleep. Take a bath – A warm bath before bed can calm your body and ease your mind. Slow down your pace and relax before you get into bed. No drinks before bed – Limit your fluid intake before bed. This will keep you from waking up all night for bathroom breaks. Other Things To Consider If you are struggling with sleep issues, you may want to discuss the side effects of any medications with your doctor. Some can cause sleep disturbances or boosts in energy and can make falling or staying asleep difficult. If you aren’t very active during the day, your body may
not feel tired by bedtime. Get your body moving during the day with exercise and outside activities – this is a great way to wear your body out and get it ready for sleep before it is time to go to bed. Also, remember to eat well. A poor diet or a hungry stomach are not easy to forget about while you are trying to sleep. Your body is changing and has different needs than it is accustomed to. Though it may be frustrating trying to figure out what it needs and how to take care of it properly, there are things you can do to help yourself out. If you have been trying these strategies and are struggling still with sleep, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. As we age there can be several issues that we don’t understand or expect, so don’t hesitate to speak with someone for advice and recommendations. SPRING 2019 | SYNERGYHomeCare.com
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SPRINGTIME VISITS T he Spring season inspires an appreciation for getting out, traveling, and visiting loved ones. The joy of experiencing the re-emergence of life after winter motivates a desire to share those feelings with the people we care about. Taking time to visit family becomes a typical activity during springtime, especially with two specific holidays, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, dedicated to appreciating family members.
Although there are holidays specific for celebrating our parents, any time during the non-winter months is a great time to visit them. Spending time with your older adults is one of the best gifts they can receive. And it’s a benefit to those who do the visiting as well. Being engaged socially improves mental health and mood. Visiting older parents helps them feel appreciated, which reduces the risk of depression and increases their quality of life. Visits also help adult children to reset their perspectives. It reminds the adult children of the valuable lessons they learned from their parents and helps them to look at their current lives from a different point-of-view. Visits with older adults can incorporate anything such as simply talking, playing games, helping with chores, or simple gardening. If the older adults are
still able to participate in physical activities, getting up and moving around will also benefit them. Children who are visiting older parents can encourage them to be active by participating in activities with them. Even short walks along the street or in the yard can have incredibly positive benefits, in addition to creating pleasant memories together. For parents who are affected by illness or injury, making regular visits will help you to determine the state of health and quality of life. You can use the time to make sure their home has any necessary improvements to support them, that they’re eating properly, and that they are able to keep up with their activities of daily living. Making regular visits while they’re healthy will also make it easier to talk to them about seeking help if you realize that they need it. Make plans this spring to visit your parents. You will benefit from sharing experiences, gaining memories, and having peace-of-mind that they are well. Your parents will benefit from feeling appreciated and having much needed social engagement.
SYNERGY HOMECARE WORDSEARCH Words can be vertical, horizontal, and diagonal.
BEAUTY CAREGIVERS COLORS CREATE EMPLOYER EXCELLENCE FLOWERS LEADER
OUTSIDE PLANTS PROVIDER ROUTINE SLEEP SPRING SYNERGY TESTIMONIALS
Hint check out the rest of the magazine for more clues.
ACROSS 6. Our caregivers are the key to _____ care 7. Adult _____ has given people a fun way to disconnect from technology 9.The _____of Choice is awarded to highly rated home care providers 10. The number of SYNERGY HomeCare franchises to receive the Leader in Excellence award DOWN 1.Springtime generally brings an improvement to mood and _____ 2.The _____ of Choice is awarded to the best home care providers to work for 3.Develop good sleep _____ 4.The _____ in Excellence is awarded to the highest quality home care franchises 5._____ of varying styles and colors can be soothing and inspiring 8.The amount of sleep you need is _____ to you
Key is available at http://bit.ly/magkey1
What do people have to say about SYNERGY HomeCare caregivers? Check out these testimonials from actual clients!
• I would refer SYNERGY HomeCare to others because they’re very caring and prompt about lining up help when I’ve needed it. The caregivers I’ve had have become friends of mine. - Betty T. • I wanted to thank you for the great care your caregivers gave to Dad and my Aunt. It was such a relief to know they were in good hands when family wasn’t able to be there. Thank you for being able to respond to our crazy schedule too! - Cindy B. • SYNERGY HomeCare has provided me with great caregivers. I am very pleased with my main caregivers as they treat me as if I was their mother. They always smile and as loving. - Ruth C. • Hugo was very pleased and that was all I cared about. The caregiver was very friendly and helpful. He enjoyed having her - she was very helpful. - Lois H. • SYNERGY HomeCare was a Godsend. When my mom came down with the flu while caring for my dad who should be in a nursing home your caregivers were absolutely professional and pleasant and caring. - Alice S.
Our caregivers are the key to quality care, ensuring our clients receive the best care possible. Caregivers who love caring for others make SYNERGY HomeCare the best for home care. These caregivers shared their love of being a caregiver with SYNERGY HomeCare:
• This company has been such a great place to work for!!! The office staff is amazing and they treat us all with such respect! My client is a perfect match for me and I love seeing her light up every morning when I get there! Thank you for this experience SYNERGY HomeCare and clients! - Alishea W. • I have met a lot of awesome people. I try to make everyone laugh and treat them like I want to be treated. Everyone needs to be treated with respect. - Shirley H. • I have so much fun with my clients, it’s always hard for them to say goodbye when it’s time to leave but love seeing them smile when I tell them I will be back! - Tammy Z. • I love working for this company very loving kind knowledgeable company great with their clients and great with their workers. Valerie B.
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THESE SEVEN SYNERGY HOMECARE FRANCHISE OWNERS WERE AWARDED ALL THREE BEST OF HOME CARE HONORS FROM HOME CARE PULSE FOR 2019.
LISA & RANDY GEYEN
JIM WELCH
LARRY & LORRI FLINT
FRANK SHANNON
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF TUCSON
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF TEMECULA
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF LONGMONT
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF CHICAGO
BRIAN MCDONALD
MICHELLE LISK
MITCH OPALSKI
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF TWIN CITIES NORTHEAST
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF MID PENNSYLVANIA
SYNERGY HOMECARE OF ARLINGTON/ALEXANDRIA
Read ahead to learn more about the Best of Home Care awards.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A 2019 BEST OF HOME CARE® LEADER IN EXCELLENCE?
Choosing a “Leader in Excellence” means choosing one of the best home care providers in the nation—as rated by clients and caregivers in third-party satisfaction interviews. Best of Home Care – Leader in Excellence is the highest award a home care provider can earn from Home Care Pulse, an independent satisfaction research firm. “Leader in Excellence” is awarded based on client and caregiver satisfaction ratings collected by Home Care Pulse in telephone interviews. Recipients of this award represent the top 4-5% of providers participating in the Home Care Pulse Satisfaction Management Program. These home care providers have proven that they provide quality care in nearly every satisfaction category measured by Home Care Pulse. Leaders in Excellence have also qualified for the Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice and Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice awards. What’s required to qualify? • Be a Home Care Pulse Certified – Trusted Provider™ for a minimum of 12 consecutive months. • Complete a minimum of two client and two caregiver satisfaction interviews per month during the previous 12 months or qualifying package. • Achieve Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice and Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice in at least 6 of 10 combined client and caregiver satisfaction categories during the previous 12 consecutive months. Here’s what our award winners say about the Leader in Excellence award:
MITCH OPALSKI
FRANK SHANNON
“It is the highest level of success you can achieve under the Home Care Pulse system and the fact that only 130 agencies in the country achieved it makes me very proud of our customer service. Clients know that we not only strive for excellence but have achieved it, so they can expect high-quality care and a high level of customer service from us.” - Mitch Opalski, Owner, SYNERGY HomeCare of Arlington/Alexandria. “It validates that we are doing what we set out to do: providing high-quality care services to our clients and providing a fantastic opportunity for caregivers that love caring for people. It proves we support them through honing their skills, being supported and respected.” - Frank Shannon, Owner, SYNERGY HomeCare of Chicago SPRING 2019 | SYNERGYHomeCare.com
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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A 2019 BEST OF HOME CARE® PROVIDER OF CHOICE?
Providers of Choice have a proven track record of delivering outstanding care as rated by their clients in third-party satisfaction interviews. The Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice award is based on client satisfaction ratings collected from telephone interviews performed by Home Care Pulse, an independent satisfaction research firm. These home care providers are best-in-class for providing quality care to their clients. This recognition assures that the provider is trustworthy and has proven their ability to provide outstanding in-home care services. Best of Home Care award-winning providers appreciate their clients’ feedback and are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality, professionalism and expertise in home care. What’s required to qualify? • Be a Home Care Pulse Certified – Trusted Provider™ for a minimum of 6 consecutive months. • Must have 10% of current clients interviewed by Home Care Pulse each month or qualifying package. • Must qualify above the 50th percentile within their geographic region in at least 2 client satisfaction categories. Here’s what our award winners say about the Provider of Choice award:
FRANK SHANNON
BRIAN MCDONALD
“It gives clients comfort in knowing that we pay close attention to quality not just when on-boarding new clients but all through the life cycle of our care services.” - Frank Shannon, Owner, SYNERGY HomeCare of Chicago “Home care is all about TRUST. Clients, or families of clients, need to be able to trust your team. We tell prospective clients how important that is and how we have a system in place to monitor the care. We have had multiple clients come to us and say that we are the only agency they want to work with as we have these awards and talk about our Quality Care.” - Brian McDonald, Owner, SYNERGY HomeCare Twin Cities Northeast
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A 2019 BEST OF HOME CARE® EMPLOYER OF CHOICE?
Quality care starts with happy caregivers. Choosing an “Employer of Choice” means choosing a provider with excellent caregiver satisfaction ratings. The Best of Home Care – Employer of Choice award is based on caregiver satisfaction ratings collected via telephone interviews by Home Care Pulse, an independent satisfaction research firm. Providers who have earned this award are best-in-class for caregiver satisfaction. When you choose an “Employer of Choice,” you can have confidence that your caregivers will be happy to serve you. Best of Home Care award-winning providers appreciate their caregivers’ feedback and are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality, professionalism and expertise in home care. What’s required to qualify? • Be a Home Care Pulse Certified – Trusted Provider™ for a minimum of 6 consecutive months. • Must have 10% of current clients interviewed by Home Care Pulse each month or qualifying package. • Must qualify above the 50th percentile within their geographic region in at least 2 caregiver satisfaction categories. Here’s what our award winners say about the Employer of Choice award:
MICHELLE LISK
LISA & RANDY GEYEN
“This has been the biggest value to my office. The caregivers know we are listening to their comments and appreciate the changes we make. The clients know that there will be more stability in the caregivers because they know they are happy. Happy employees lead to happy clients.” - Michelle Lisk, Owner, SYNERGY HomeCare Mid Pennsylvania “In an age when employee relations have become more transactional, we think it is meaningful to many people to work with a company that still values its employees. It feels good to have employees affirm us and our approach because we truly do value them. They are the face of our company.” - Randy Geyen and Lisa Landvick-Geyen, Owners, SYNERGY HomeCare of Tucson, AZ
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Care for Everyone Call anytime 877.432.2692 or visit www.synergyhomecare.com Proudly Independently Owned & Operated