As a part of my series about “Life and Leadership Lessons Learned In The Military”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dan Barbee. Dan has more than 25 years of leadership experience in business operations. The first-time franchisee spent several years in the defense and intelligence industry, before retiring. Dan served in the United States Marine Corps. As a California native, he earned a master’s in environmental science from California State University Northridge.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Can you tell us a bit about your childhood “backstory”?
I didn’t have a very traditional upbringing. When I was 6 years old, my parents were in a car accident, and I lost them both. I am, however, very blessed to have such a large family. My aunts, uncles, and grandparents took care of me as I grew up in multiple households in Northern California.

What are you doing today? Can you share a story that exemplifies the unique work that you are doing?
I left home for the military in 1982 and spent my career in and around the government and military in operations. Most of my work was focused on taking charge of large real estate and daily operations. When I retired in 2017, I decided to move back to the area where I grew up. I came across Always Best Care and knew it was the best business path for me to pursue because I wanted to do something genuinely good for the community. I was responsible for taking care of my paralyzed grandfather when I was a young teenager, but I was not a good caretaker, and my grandfather wasn’t the best patient. We began to resent each other. Ultimately, we both could have handled the situation better together, and I think opening Always Best Care has shined a light on that. This work to me is meaningful, and I want to make a difference in the field.

Can you tell us a bit about your military background?
I was a Reconnaissance Marine. Back then, our mission was to work in different areas of the world. While in the military, I was in a helicopter accident and was severely injured, breaking my back in a few places along with other minor injuries. Because of this incident, I was discharged and made my way back into civilian life. When recovering from my injury, I was very young and not the best patient. Overnight I had gone from one of the most capable people in the world to an invalid, which was very difficult for me to handle. This brought me back to when I needed to care for my grandfather when I was a teenager and gave me a better understanding of how he felt. The entire experience helped me realize what I wanted to do with my life, and that was to help and care for others. There are many people I come across in this field now who are in the exact spot I was — one day they are walking down the street just fine and the next they need to use a walker. Having that experience myself helped shape me to be more compassionate and help others.

Can you share the most interesting story that you experienced during your military career?
I got to go through tons of training in the military. Part of my job was to be well-rounded and learn how the military trains in different areas. I was able to spend two whole years doing just that. I went to different schools and learned different skills. I always had a clear mission, which helped me stay on task and move toward a common goal with my teams.

Did you experience or hear about a story of heroism, during your military experience? Can you share that story with us?
I had the pleasure of working with General Chili Chilton, among many other great generals. They were able to accomplish so much by getting everyone to work together and do their job as a team. I also had the distinct honor to have dinner with Colin Powell and listen to him speak, and I really admired him. I went on to read his biography. He truly is an incredible individual. I try to look at successful people and what they do to get everyone to follow where they’re leading.

But to answer the question, my daughter is my hero. She is now a Captain in the Army. In high school she decided she was going to be attending West Point and did everything in her power to realize her goals. Her commitment was to the honor code. She is now in Germany as a Company Commander and works tirelessly, always doing the right thing, which reflects the values that every parent hopes their children embrace.

Does a person need to be facing a life and death situation to do something heroic or to be called a hero?
No, while I and my fellow military veterans have faced these incredible situations, this doesn’t have anything to do with heroism. In those situations we are heroes, but a lot of the time people are heroic in other ways. I have team members who go out of their way to help people — that is a very heroic thing to do. In many ways they don’t get compensated for certain acts of service, and they are not just doing it for the recognition either, but rather from the good of their heart. We work with many people who are in advanced age and don’t have families. Oftentimes, my team members will go above and beyond to help these individuals, whether that be moving boxes or picking up a veteran and bringing them to find housing. They are the heroes, helping others who need it without expecting anything in return.

Based on your military experience, can you share with our readers 5 Leadership or Life Lessons that you learned from your experience”?

1. Take care of your team: This is a lesson that all branches of the military learn on day one in boot camp and practice throughout their entire military career. It’s of great value to bring it into your everyday business. It’s extremely valuable to have good leaders, who know their team does the work and that caring for them ensures success.
2. Direct communication: If there is something that needs to be addressed, it should always be addressed right away. Be straight up and explain that you’re going to be blunt about the situation and explain what you need to say. You don’t have to be mean, just direct. Do not let any problem fester.
3. We all succeed, or we all fail together: When everyone works toward a common goal, one person’s success is everyone else’s success. However, when one person fails, the entire group fails. Always make sure everyone knows what the mission is and what their role is in it. People tend to get caught up in their individual goals. They falsely believe their goal must be accomplished, even at the expense of goals of others. It is important to ensure they know how their goals are aligned and co-dependent with everyone’s goals.
4. Lead by example: I always tell people if you put a camera inside my home, you’d see the same person you get in front of you every day. It’s important to lead by example and live up to the same character no matter when or where you are, including when no one is watching.
5. My ego and self-esteem are strong enough that I don’t have to be right: If you’re a good leader, you take advice from everyone. If it’s a good idea, who cares who it comes from? A good leader listens to their team and those around them. I learned this in the Marines. I parlay this to my team and others I meet. By listening, I’ve been part of many successful teams.

Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?
At Always Best Care, I’m always looking to expand what we do. We try to partner with different organizations and even competitors. Ultimately the care of patients is above all else. By working with hospice agencies, home health agencies and even other senior care providers, we can learn more and help people to the best of our abilities. There are even some partners we enjoy working with that may not be a direct correlation to senior care, but when you think about it, it really is. For instance, working with mortgage professionals to help seniors refinance their homes or real estate agents to help them sell their home. There are always partnerships that can be made to better help others, and that’s where my true passion lies. I also have a great passion for helping veterans and will continue to work alongside veteran affairs. We have a little over 100 patients who are veterans, and I’m very pleased to be working with every single one of them.

Is there a particular person who you are grateful toward who helped get you to where you are?
There are a lot of people who have taught me a great deal. I grew up in many households, and it would be hard to pinpoint exactly who had the greatest impact. I would say one of my aunts. She taught me the most about personal responsibility. I learned from her that you can choose the right place to be or the wrong place to be, and if you’re in the wrong place when something happens, that is a choice. By learning this lesson, I was able to choose where I was supposed to be and by default, I was always where I should be and doing what I should. I also think because of my family’s deep ties to religion, they instilled the values of giving back and desire to help others.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
“Your success is our success, and our success is your success.” I used this quote with all our employees when I took over the company. I told our caregivers who were working at Always Best Care that they would share in our success, and their wages would go up as we grew. Most did not believe this. At the time they were being paid $10.50 and $11 per hour. Our goal was $19 per hour. In four years, we quadrupled our revenue and raised wages the entire time. Today we are paying a minimum of $20 per hour. One of those caregivers wrote to me just last week and said she didn’t believe this was going to happen when I first told them, and she’s thrilled I kept my promise. So: “Our success was her success!”

This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!

According to the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results registry, “The median age of a breast cancer diagnosis is 62 and nearly 20 percent of women diagnosed are over the age of 75.” Researchers also predict that cancer diagnoses in women ages 70 to 84 will continue to increase.

The good news is that breast cancer is still treatable – and survivable – for seniors. Whereas radical mastectomies were once commonplace, with advancements in research and treatment, they are now fairly rare with other options proving effective. More studies are being conducted to better understand cancer development and treatment effects on older adults. It is important that the patient’s age and functional ability be taken into consideration when undergoing chemotherapy treatment to reduce risk of potential toxicities and minimize the impact on their quality of life.

Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is still key when it comes to effectively treating breast cancer. Women should continue to receive annual or biennial mammograms to monitor breast health and detect any changes. Unfortunately, doctors have found that seniors tend to become less consistent with yearly breast screenings. Monthly self-exams are also recommended, as well as paying attention to warning signs that may indicate breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms include:

• A lump in the breast or underarm
• Visible changes in breast size or shape
• Redness or pitting of the skin
• Bloody discharge from the nipple

Women should also know common risk factors for breast cancer such as:

• Over 50 years old
• Menarche beginning before age 12
• Menopause beginning after age 50
• No pregnancy or pregnancy after age 30
• Long-term oral contraceptive use
• Dense breast tissue

Treatment for Breast Cancer

Surgery is still very common for breast cancer, but it is not necessarily the first line of defense. Many women undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink or destroy tumors and cancer cells. These treatments are sometimes used in conjunction with one another, or with surgery. A lumpectomy may be performed to remove just the tumor, or a mastectomy may be performed to remove the entire breast. Hormone therapy is also becoming more common for certain types of breast cancer.

Chemotherapy and radiation often take place over many weeks and require regular visits for treatment. These treatments can be hard on the body, and it can be beneficial for women to have reliable transportation as well as support at home to manage side effects and assist with daily care.

In-home caregivers can provide a wide range of non-medical care and support for women as they undergo or recover from breast cancer treatment. Caregivers can help prepare healthy meals, assist with mobility, accompany individuals on errands or outings, provide medication reminders, perform light housekeeping, and much more allowing seniors to remain as independent as possible.

Contact Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how in-home care can benefit seniors during cancer care, recovery, and general aging in place.

As COPD progresses, it becomes harder to breathe. Many people first notice symptoms when they become out of breath after light exercise or climbing up a flight of stairs. Activities that used to be easier now cause coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Seniors may feel like they frequently have to clear their throat or cough, and that their chest becomes tight. These challenges can cause people to rethink how active they are and what activities they participate in.

Common risk factors for COPD include:

• Smoking
• Asthma
• Air pollution
• Jobs that involve inhaling dust, chemicals, fumes, or other irritants.
• Genetics

Your doctor will perform several tests and review imaging to assess your lung function and identify common signs of COPD. Early detection can help with managing symptoms before they become more severe.

Managing COPD Symptoms

There currently is no cure for COPD, but treatment and symptom management can help slow progression and improve quality of life. There are several steps you can take to enhance your breathing ability such as:

Quit Smoking
Cigarette smoke is filled with harmful chemicals and toxins that you then breathe into your lungs. This can damage your airway and the lining of your lungs making breathing more difficult. It can also destroy the tiny air sacs in your lungs that move oxygen in and out. This can exacerbate COPD symptoms and leave you with increased shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and mucus production. Talk to your doctor about participating in a smoking cessation program to help reduce damage to your lungs. Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke as well.

Clean More Frequently
Minimize the amount of dust that accumulates in your home through regular cleaning. You can also get stronger air filters or an air purifier to help clean harmful particles out of the air and breathe a little easier. Pay attention to air quality reports too so you can plan accordingly and avoid days when the air quality is dangerous for sensitive groups.

Stay Active
It can be difficult to exercise and stay active when you have trouble breathing, but not exercising can make your COPD worse. Engage in activities that help to strengthen your lungs and improve oxygen circulation. Start slowly and work your way up as you are able, discussing any exercise plans with your doctor to stay safe. You may want to work with a respiratory therapist on ways to improve your lung capacity and minimize COPD symptoms.

Maintain a Healthy Diet
It may seem odd that diet affects COPD, but you need good nutrition to fuel your body. Plus, when your body breaks down different foods, it creates carbon dioxide that your lungs must then expel. Carbohydrates can produce a lot of carbon dioxide, so some people find a low-carb diet to be helpful. Limiting the amount of sodium you consume can be beneficial as well because sodium increases water retention which can put more pressure on your lungs.

Obesity can also have a negative effect because it requires more energy to carry around the extra weight, and your lungs and heart have to work harder to function. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help you manage your weight while giving your body the nutrients it needs to stay energized and combat infection.

An in-home caregiver can provide the support you need to maintain your independence and follow healthier routines to help manage your COPD. From assisting with light housekeeping to meal preparation to running errands, having a caregiver there when you need them can be incredibly beneficial. Contact Always Best Care at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation and find out how you can benefit from in-home care when dealing with COPD.

Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, announced today the launch of its third territory in Massachusetts with the opening of its location in Greater Worcester. Located at 65 James St., Ste. 8A, Worcester, Always Best Care of Greater Worcester is owned and operated by franchisee originally from Ghana, Kingsley Asare-Mensah and his wife Eva and will provide award-winning senior care services to Greater Worcester including the communities of Worcester, Fitchburg, Lunenburg, Leominster, Holden, Auburn, Boylston, Grafton and Dudley, among others.

“We are pleased with the expansion of our services into the Greater Worcester community, and we welcome Kingsley, who will be well suited for the brand with more than 15 years of experience as a registered nurse caring for patients internationally,” said Jake Brown, President & CEO of Always Best Care. “As we continue to expand our network across the nation, we look forward to continuing to build alongside those with healthcare backgrounds and a strong entrepreneurial mindset.”

Asare-Mensah is a registered nurse with over 15 years of practice in both the United States and internationally. He holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in public health from the University of New England in Portland, Maine. Asare-Mensah formerly worked as a home health aide assisting clients with activities of daily living in the comfort of their homes with compassion and respect. Over the years as a registered nurse, he has worked in various health care settings including surgical organ transplant units, acute care facilities, long term care facilities, and in biotech industries. An immigrant from Ghana and a longtime resident of Worcester, Asare-Mensah values family, traveling and cooking and brings the enthusiasm he has for these passions to work with him to work each day.

“I am thrilled to now be opening my own business where I will continue to care for the senior population,” said Asare-Mensah. “And thanks to Always Best Care’s experienced and dedicated team, the entire process has been very streamlined – the exact kind of peace of mind and assurance a new franchisee needs.”

Always Best Care is one of the nation’s leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 200 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada.

By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client’s particular physical or social needs. The hallmark services of Always Best Care include non-medical in-home care and assisted living placement and referral services, with skilled home health care in some limited markets.

For additional information on services available through Always Best Care of Greater Worcester, or for a free evaluation, please call (914) 312- 5227, email kmensah@abc-seniors.com or www.alwaysbestcareworcester.com.

About Always Best Care            

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care assists seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs, and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company’s clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers an exclusive program called Always in Touch, a telephone reassurance program that provides a daily phone call to seniors and disabled adults who are living alone and have limited contact with the outside world. Always in Touch is a national telephone reassurance program offered in the USA and Canada. For more information on Always in Touch, or to request an application, visit www.Always-In-Touch.com.

 Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, announced today the launch of its 15th franchise in California with the opening of its location in Pasadena at 425 N Santa Anita Ave, Suite A., Arcadia. Always Best Care of Pasadena is owned and operated by franchisee Diane Pierson and will provide award-winning senior care services to Pasadena and the surrounding communities, including South Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, San Marino, Temple City, parts of North El Monte, among others.

“We are glad to see further expansion in Southern California, with our 15^th location in the state, this marks a tremendous milestone for us, as we continue to provide superior senior care services to local communities across the country,” said Jake Brown, President & CEO of Always Best Care. “From day one, our team has seen the passion Diane brings to Always Best Care, with an entrepreneurial spirit as well as a desire to help others in her community, she’s a welcomed addition to the brand and we look forward to supporting her as she grows her business.”

Pierson received her bachelor’s degree in computer science from San Diego State University and has since worked in management, spending several years in the public sector, including with agencies such as the Army Corp of Engineers and the Port of Long Beach developing, integrating, and implementing project controls and project management. Pierson’s longtime career has provided her with the necessary tools for entrepreneurship, allowing her to build strong relationships within the community. She now looks forward to fulfilling her passions by helping families and creating jobs in the local community as a passionate leader.

“Born and raised in Pasadena and the surrounding neighborhoods, my roots inspired me to chase after my dreams of opening a senior care franchise in the city I call home,” said Pierson. “From the discovery process at Always Best Care and through the opening of my location, the franchise support I’ve received has been phenomenal. It’s always been a goal of mine to become an entrepreneur, and now that it’s a reality in an industry I’m passionate about serving, I’m proud to have a team of professionals who support me.”

Always Best Care is one of the nation’s leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 200 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada.

By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client’s particular physical or social needs. The hallmark services of Always Best Care include non-medical in-home care and assisted living finder and referral services, with skilled home health care in some limited markets.

For additional information on services available through Always Best Care of Pasadena, or for a free evaluation, please call 626-778-1441, email dpierson@abc-seniors.com or www.alwaysbestcarepasadena.com.

About Always Best Care            

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care assists seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs, and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company’s clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers an exclusive program called Always in Touch, a telephone reassurance program that provides a daily phone call to seniors and disabled adults who are living alone and have limited contact with the outside world. Always in Touch is a national telephone reassurance program offered in the USA and Canada. For more information on Always in Touch, or to request an application, visit www.Always-In-Touch.com.

• Familiarity: Seniors are intimately familiar with the layout and organization of their home. They know how to navigate and find what they want, and they feel relaxed and comfortable in a recognizable environment. This can be especially beneficial for those experiencing cognitive decline.
• Routine: Seniors are used to their consistent daily routines and the predictability of life in their own home. They feel secure. A new environment can lead to confusion.
• Health: Studies have shown that seniors tend to have better health outcomes and improved recovery when living in their own home versus a nursing home or assisted living facility.
• Independence: In their own home, seniors tend to feel more in control of their lives and their surroundings. With so many changes occurring with aging, this can be reassuring.

Non-Medical In-Home Care Can Keep Seniors in Their Homes Longer

As individuals age, they often require increasing levels of assistance completing everyday tasks. But that does not mean that they must move into a nursing home or assisted living facility. With structured support and a personalized in-home care plan, they can continue to safely age in place. This can be beneficial not only for their mental health, but also their financial health, as non-medical in-home care can be a cost-effective alternative.

At Always Best Care, we conduct a multi-point assessment that provides details regarding each client’s unique needs and goals. Our caregivers are well-versed on the individual’s:

• diagnosis and prognosis
• medications
• personal care needs
• nutrition and dietary needs
• fall risk
• other critical care-related information

A comprehensive care service plan is created to address these needs and create an environment where the client can remain in their home and live as independently as possible. Caregivers provide necessary services to improve safety, adherence to medical treatment plans, and enhance quality of life. Seniors play an active role in decision making and guiding their care, which fosters a positive, constructive relationship.

If or when the time comes that the client’s needs exceed the capabilities of non-medical in-home care, Always Best Care can help families navigate the process of transitioning to assisted living, a nursing home, or another care facility.

Contact Always Best Care at (877) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how you can benefit from non-medical in-home care.

• Get recommended vaccines. Vaccines can help prevent many diseases such as the flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, hepatitis B, HPV, etc. Talk with your doctor about any vaccines or vaccine boosters that you may benefit from as you age.
• Wash hands often. Germs are everywhere, and they are easily spread from the hands to the eyes, nose, and mouth, where they enter the body. Use soap and water to frequently wash your hands, especially after being in high-traffic areas and touching handrails, doorknobs, elevator buttons, or countertops. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer. Ask others to clean their hands regularly as well.
• Clean high-touch surfaces. Use disinfectant sprays or wipes to clean common surfaces that multiple people may touch. This can help further reduce the spread of germs between people.
• Take care of wounds. If you have a cut, sore, or burn, make sure that it is properly cleaned and covered with sterile gauze or an adhesive bandage. Change dressings as needed to limit bacteria growth and promote healing. Wash hands before and after treating any wounds.
• Finish antibiotics. Even if you are feeling better, make sure you take your entire prescription. Stopping early may mean that the bacteria or infection has not been fully cleared and may return.
• Cover coughs/sneezes. Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue whenever possible. This helps to block germs from spreading as easily through the air, and keeps your hands cleaner so you are not promoting spread through touch.
• Avoid people who are sick. Refrain from visiting with individuals who are sick, or politely ask them to reschedule their visit with you until they are feeling better.
• Speak up about concerns. If you develop any concerning symptoms or have questions about medications or changes in your health, talk to your doctor. Ask about ways that you can be proactive in preventing infection and staying healthy.

Working with an in-home caregiver can help you maintain a cleaner, healthier environment at home. A caregiver can assist with planning and preparing nutritious meals, performing light housekeeping, providing medication reminders, scheduling and attending appointments, and other activities to promote better health.

Contact Always Best Care at (877) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how you can benefit from non-medical in-home care.

“We are thrilled to continue working alongside Joanne who has been a part of our Always Best Care community for years, and we look forward to also welcoming her sisters Gina and Andrea to the team,” said Jake Brown, President & CEO of Always Best Care. “Joanne’s experience over the years with Always Best Care has now led to a new expansion opportunity to join forces with her family.  We look forward to supporting this new location that will, in conjunction with others, serve the state of North Carolina and its senior population.”

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Pizzuto, Ward and Allegretto all relocated to North Carolina more than 25 years ago. Pizzuto, who took the first initiative to North Carolina, did so in the beginning of her career in the healthcare industry. Since, she has gained experience working with seniors in a variety of settings from assisted living to long-term care. In 2011, Pizzuto opened Always Best Care of Burlington, North Carolina, further dedicating her career to the industry. After working many years alongside each other, Pizzuto was honored to exit the business in 2016, handing the reins over to her daughter, as she continues her entrepreneurial endeavors with the opening of Always Best Care of Winston-Salem alongside her sisters. Ward, Pizzuto’s sister, joins the business with more than 30 years of experience in the finance world in various accounting roles, earning the trust of national brands. In 2017, Ward, alongside her husband, launched a successful home inspection business which is still currently owned and operated by the couple. Rounding out the trio, an inspiring health and wellness enthusiast for more than 29 years, Allegretto joins Always Best Care in pursuit to continue fulfilling her life’s mission to put the needs of others first.

“Being an owner of Always Best Care for more than 10 years, I knew that this business would continue to be the perfect franchise model to have my sisters join alongside me in pursuit of entrepreneurship,” said Pizzuto. “We have always been a very tight-knit family, growing up in Brooklyn together. Having the family own this business together is an incredible feeling, as it combines our passion for serving others and entrepreneurship, all while spending time together. Every day we come into the office; we are proud to work together to make life better for the seniors we care for in the Winston-Salem community.”

Always Best Care is one of the nation’s leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 200 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada.

By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client’s particular physical or social needs. The hallmark services of Always Best Care include non-medical in-home care and assisted living finder and referral services, with skilled home health care in some limited markets.

For additional information on services available through Always Best Care of Winston-Salem, or for a free evaluation, please call (336) 338-7896, email JPizzuto@abc-seniors.com or visit www.alwaysbestcarewinston-salem.com.

About Always Best Care            

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care assists seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs, and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company’s clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers an exclusive program called Always in Touch, a telephone reassurance program that provides a daily phone call to seniors and disabled adults who are living alone and have limited contact with the outside world. Always in Touch is a national telephone reassurance program offered in the USA and Canada. For more information on Always in Touch, or to request an application, visit www.Always-In-Touch.com.

September is Pain Awareness Month. Knowing different strategies for managing pain can reduce discomfort and allow you to maintain greater independence. There are many ways to cope with pain and keep it from becoming too disruptive.

Move Your Body
When your muscles or joints ache, it can be tempting to want to minimize your physical activity, but that can actually make things worse. The less you move, the sorer and stiffer joints can become. Start each morning off with some gentle stretches to loosen your body up and enhance flexibility. If you start to feel tight during the day, you can stop and do a few stretches too. Exercise releases endorphins which can help reduce pain.

Yoga can also be a beneficial form of exercise to help with pain management. It is easy on your joints, encourages balance and flexibility, and enables you to really focus on how you’re moving your body, and how you feel.

Calm Your Mind
Chronic pain can be frustrating and take a toll on your mental health. Try incorporating meditation and deep breathing into your daily routine. Focus on taking deep breaths in and out which can relieve tension in your neck, back, and shoulders. Practicing relaxation exercises helps connect the body and mind and give you a greater sense of peace and calmness. Many people find that this helps with pain management.

Listen to Your Body
While it is important to stay active, you also want to listen to what your body is telling you and when it is time to take a break. Don’t push yourself too hard. Adjust your plans and level of activity based on how you are feeling and what you are able to safely and comfortably handle. You may need to shorten your walk, sit down for a few minutes to rest, postpone a project until the next day, or ask others for help.

Talk to Your Doctor
Be honest with your doctor about any pain you are experiencing and how it is impacting your quality of life. Your doctor may be able to recommend pain management strategies based on your needs and preferences. This could include physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, hot/cold compresses, or prescription medications. Try different things until you find what works best for you.

Distract Yourself
The more you focus on your pain, the worse it can feel. Continuing to attend activities and get-togethers, spending time with friends, laughing, and doing things you enjoy can be positive distractions. Stress and tension can be reduced by putting attention on other things. This is not to say you should ignore your pain, but taking your mind off of it for a while may help.

If you are experiencing chronic pain or occasional discomfort, having a non-medical in-home caregiver to support you can help. They can assist with a variety of tasks around your home from light housekeeping to meal prep to accompanying you on outings. Caregivers can also be a source of companionship and provide the level of care you need when you need it. Contact Always Best Care at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about senior care services.

There are many ways you can boost your physical, mental, emotional, and social health as you age:

1. Stay Active
   Keep your muscles and joints strong and flexible by continuing to exercise and move your body. Sign up for classes at a local gym, work with a personal trainer, or workout with a friend. This can help you to stay accountable and engaged because you are not exercising alone. It can also expose you to a wider variety of exercises and activities – and teach you how to safely execute different movements. If you’re not ready to go back in person yet, sign up for virtual classes, or follow along with videos online.

   Planning fun outings is also a great way to stay active. Go for a hike, powerwalk around the outlets or mall, or take a walking tour of a historical site. Join up with friends and go to the zoo or a botanical garden. There will be plenty to look at and do as you get in your steps.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet
   Plant a garden so you can grow your own fresh produce and herbs. It is exciting to watch everything bloom and then eat what you have grown. Be daring and plant a few vegetables you haven’t tried before, and use fresh herbs to enhance flavor. Go online and explore new recipes to use what you have grown or can find at the farmers market. Many communities offer cooking classes as well if you want to improve your skills.

   It can also be fun to involve friends. Get everyone together to share your favorite recipes. Once you have cooked, everyone can split the leftovers so you are not eating the same thing all week. You will be able to socialize and have a variety of foods to change things up.

3. Be Social
   Mental health also plays an important role in healthy aging. Make it a point to schedule get-togethers with friends and family, join clubs, volunteer, and stay connected. This helps to prevent loneliness and isolation, which can take a toll on your well-being. Find activities you enjoy, that make you happy, and that keep your mind sharp.
4. Get Recommended Health Screenings
   Be proactive when it comes to your health by getting recommended screenings. Not only can it catch potential issues early on, but it can also give you greater peace of mind. Knowing that you are taking care of your body can boost your mental health as well. Talk to your doctor about which screenings are right for you.
5. Stay positive
   Focus on the good things in life. Find the silver linings and make the most of each situation. When you change your thinking, it can change how you approach life and give every day greater purpose. Positive thinking can also help ward off depression.

Partnering with an in-home care provider can allow you to not only age in place more safely, but also stay involved with the things you enjoy. A caregiver can accompany you on outings, help with scheduling appointments, assist with meal planning and preparation, and support a wide range of other activities. Contact Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how you can benefit from in-home care.