News and Resources

A good night’s sleep is essential for optimal mental and physical health, no matter your age. Still, the health conditions, medications, and changes in sleep patterns that often come with age make older adults particularly prone to sleep struggles. According to the American Psychological Association, a lack of rest can then lead to depression, heart disease, high blood pressure, mood swings, and lapses in memory and concentration.

If your elderly loved one is dealing with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns, you might not know where to find help. After all, relying on medicines and supplements to sleep can cause grogginess and confusion the next day, as well as urinary retention and constipation. Fortunately, plenty of natural sleep remedies are available to help seniors achieve a more restful slumber.

• Stick to a regular sleep schedule: Routines are crucial to the health and well-being of older adults, and that includes bedtime routines. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps maintain a consistent circadian rhythm.
• Make the bedroom a haven for sleep: Having a dark, cool, and quiet bedroom makes it easier to fall asleep. In addition, seniors should disengage from screen activities at least 30 minutes before bed to prevent the “blue” light from interfering with a good night’s rest.
• Create a bedtime ritual: Winding down at night is an important part of preparing the body and mind for sleep. Stress-relieving activities like reading a book, listening to soothing music, or taking a warm bath are excellent remedies for elderly insomnia.
• Avoid napping excessively: Too much daytime rest can affect the ability to fall asleep at night. Taking a brief afternoon nap is okay, but it’s also important to incorporate enough physical activity throughout the day to encourage healthy nighttime sleep patterns.
• Avoid heavy evening meals: Certain foods tend to cause indigestion, especially in seniors. Therefore, it’s best to avoid eating a heavy dinner or overly sweet dessert too close to bedtime. Instead, try having a light, carbohydrate-rich snack—such as a few crackers or small bowl of cereal—to promote better sleep.
• Consume the right liquids in the evening: Avoid caffeine after lunchtime, and don’t use alcohol as a sleep aid. Instead, opt for warm herbal tea in the evenings. Even then, try to avoid liquids before bed, because a full bladder can wake you up at night.
• Schedule a doctor appointment: If these natural sleep solutions for seniors aren’t enough, consider calling your loved one’s doctor. A thorough medical exam may reveal the underlying cause of insomnia, such as restless leg syndrome, anxiety, depression, or chronic pain.

When you can’t be there yourself, hiring an in-home caregiver is another way to help seniors get a restful sleep. The qualified, compassionate caregivers at our independently owned and operated BrightStar Care agency go above and beyond to learn your loved one’s bedtime habits and preferences, developing a plan that can help address sleep problems. Contact us to learn more.

Many people think of Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer, a last chance to relish barbecue and the outdoors. However, the origin of Labor Day goes back to 1885 when the day was first observed to honor the achievements of America’s workers.^[1] So in addition to firing up the grill this holiday weekend, why not spend some time celebrating your parent’s or grandparent’s professional achievements? Whether he or she was a teacher, soldier, or homemaker, asking questions and creating a life story can provide a meaningful and memorable way to spend time together.

Have a Conversation  
After making sure your parent or grandparent is open to it, set aside some time to sit together and ask about his or her career. There are a number of ways to do this. You might give a curious grandchild the assignment to act as a “reporter” for the day, coming up with questions to ask Grandma or Grandpa about education and work. Or, you might simply gather the family around for a casual conversation. Here are a few sample questions to get you started:

• How did you come to choose your career? What sort of education/training did you have to go through for your job?
• What was a typical day like at your job?
• Did you have any favorite friends at work?
• Did you have fun at work?
• What about the little things? How did you get to work? What did you eat for lunch? What was your workspace like?
• Did you make any big career changes? What was that like? Was it scary or exciting?
• How did your field/industry change over the years?
• Do you have any wisdom or advice for today’s workers?

In order to make this a positive experience for all, make sure to tailor your questions and approach to be sensitive to your parent’s needs. For instance, a long list of in-depth questions won’t suit a senior with cognitive impairment. Further, some war veterans may shy away from discussing their experience in detail: monitor their reactions throughout the conversation and gently guide topics to suit.

Create a Life Story Capturing your conversation in a life story creates a memento you can save forever. It also provides a tangible way to honor your parent’s career and reflect his or her accomplishments back to him or her. There are a number of formats or mediums you can try for this:

• Ask a younger family member to record the initial conversation with your parent and edit it into a homemade radio show or TV news segment.
• Type the interview up into an article, like you would see in a magazine. Embellish this with head shots and other old photos that capture your parent at work.
• Compile a scrapbook using short quotes and longer passages from your conversation. Mix in photos, licenses, certificates, letters, business cards—whatever materials you can find with your parent.
• Create a timeline on poster board that maps your parent’s career history.

When the life story is complete, spend some time looking over it with your parent. The exact timing of this is flexible: you might have the initial conversation on Labor Day and present the life story later, or you could have the conversation in advance and present the life story on Labor Day. However you plan it, think of this as an opportunity to learn more about your loved one and show them that the work they’ve done is important and appreciated. ^[1] https://www.dol.gov/general/laborday/history

When it comes to preventing falls and injuries in the home, the bathroom is the most important place to make changes. Adults ages 65 and older have the highest risk of injury from bathroom falls, which may include fractures, broken bones, and concussions. For your peace of mind, implement these 10 tips to improve bathroom safety for the elderly.
 

1. Install grab bars: Grab bars are a lifesaver for seniors with poor balance. Install secure, bolt-on bars in the tub/shower area and near the toilet so your loved one can navigate the bathroom more safely and confidently.
2. Apply non-slip flooring: Slick, wet floors are a common cause of bathroom falls. To minimize this risk, place a non-slip decal in the tub or shower. Then, apply non-slip decals to tiled bathroom floors.
3. Reduce the need to bend and reach: The goal is to keep commonly used items within easy reach. One solution is to mount shampoo and soap dispensers in the shower. This also prevents bottles from slipping and falling onto the floor, where they may be difficult to retrieve.
4. Upgrade to a walk-in tub or curbless shower: Losing balance while stepping over the side of the bathtub or shower curb is one of the biggest elderly bathroom safety hazards. Make your bathroom safer with a beautiful walk-in tub or curbless shower.
5. Install a raised toilet seat: Many seniors find it difficult to raise and lower themselves onto the toilet. A detachable raised toilet seat increases the height by three to four inches and features grab bars for added leverage.
6. Improve nighttime bathroom lighting: Older people commonly use the bathroom at night. Simply adding a nightlight in the bathroom and the hallway outside improves visibility to help prevent falls.
7. Install a shower chair or transfer bench: The option to sit while showering helps seniors who have difficulty balancing on their feet. A transfer bench is another option to help limited-mobility seniors get in and out of the shower.
8. Swap out the bathroom door: Most bathrooms have inward-swinging doors. Consider replacing yours with an outward-swinging model so caregivers can get in if the senior falls in front of the door. This will also increase ability to maneuver while showering.
9. Prevent scalding at the tap: Older adults have thin, delicate skin and take longer to detect hot temperatures. Both factors increase the risk of scalding. Effective safety measures include lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees and clearly labeling the faucets.
10. Outfit your loved one with a medical alert device: A waterproof medical alert bracelet or necklace provides an easy way for seniors to call for help if they fall in the bathroom and can’t get up.

At BrightStar Care, we hope to improve elderly safety by educating families about ways to minimize falls in the bathroom and throughout the rest of the house. If you’re looking for first-rate caregiving services from qualified, compassionate, and caring professionals, contact us today at 831-641-1087.
 

Seniors benefit greatly from engaging in activities which promote their  physical and mental well-being. Crafting, gardening, and hobbies have emerged as therapeutic outlets, offering seniors avenues to enhance their mental and physical health while fostering a sense of fulfillment. Let's explore the healing potential of these recreational pursuits for seniors.

Crafting activities like knitting, painting, and woodworking stimulate creativity and cognitive function in seniors. Engaging in these tasks encourages mental agility and problem-solving skills, promoting overall cognitive health. Moreover, the rhythmic nature of crafting can reduce stress and anxiety, providing seniors with a calming outlet for self-expression and accomplishment.

Gardening provides seniors with opportunities to connect with nature while improving physical health. Activities such as planting, watering, and weeding offer low-impact exercise that enhances flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. Spending time outdoors in a garden setting also promotes mental well-being, reducing stress levels and fostering a sense of peace and tranquility.

Hobbies cater to individual interests and passions, offering seniors opportunities for personal growth and social interaction. Whether it's birdwatching, photography, painting, or collecting, hobbies provide avenues for seniors to explore new interests and connect with like-minded individuals. Engaging in hobbies can also alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, promoting social engagement and emotional well-being.

Crafting, gardening, and hobbies offer seniors valuable opportunities for self-expression, physical activity, and social connection. These recreational pursuits not only enhance cognitive function and physical health but also contribute to the overall quality of life. By incorporating these activities into daily routines, caregivers can help seniors lead fulfilling and vibrant lives.

If you have a senior in your life who could use some companionship or home care, please call us here at BrightStar Care of The Monterey Peninsula at 831-641-1087.

As we age, maintaining physical fitness becomes increasingly important for overall health and well-being. However, traditional exercise routines may not always be suitable for seniors with varying physical abilities. Fortunately, adaptive exercises offer tailored workouts designed to accommodate individual needs while prioritizing safety and effectiveness.

Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be practiced while seated or using a chair for support. It focuses on improving flexibility, strength, and balance through modified poses and gentle stretches. Seniors with mobility issues or balance concerns can safely participate in chair yoga, reaping the benefits of improved range of motion and reduced stiffness.

Water aerobics provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints while still providing cardiovascular benefits. Exercising in water helps alleviate pressure on the body, making it an ideal option for seniors with arthritis or other joint conditions. Water resistance also helps build muscle strength and endurance, promoting overall physical fitness.

Resistance bands offer a versatile and accessible way to strengthen muscles without the need for heavy weights or machines. Seniors can use resistance bands to perform a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups, from bicep curls to leg lifts. The adjustable resistance levels make it easy to customize workouts to individual fitness levels, ensuring a safe and effective exercise routine.

Tai Chi is a gentle martial art characterized by slow, flowing movements and deep breathing exercises. It improves balance, flexibility, and coordination while promoting relaxation and stress reduction. Seniors of all fitness levels can benefit from practicing Tai Chi, as it can be easily adapted to accommodate physical limitations or mobility issues.

Strength training and balance exercises are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining mobility as we age. Simple activities like standing on one leg, walking heel to toe, or practicing yoga poses can help improve balance and stability. Seniors can gradually increase the difficulty of balance exercises as they become more confident, reducing the risk of falls and injury.

Incorporating adaptive exercises into a senior's routine can significantly improve physical fitness, mobility, and overall quality of life. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer before starting any new exercise program, especially for seniors with underlying health conditions.

If you would like to ask questions, or consider having caregivers to assist with your loved one’s exercise program, give us a call at 831-641-1087.

While our health can often feel unpredictable, taking proactive steps to boost immunity and maintain overall wellness is more important than ever. A strong immune system helps your body fight off illnesses and quickly recover from infections. Fortunately, enhancing your immune system and overall health doesn't require drastic changes or complicated regimens. Here are some strategies to help you feel your best and stay resilient.

1. Nourish Your Body with a Balanced Diet

The foundation of good health starts with what you eat. A well-rounded diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can significantly enhance your immune function.
 

• Fruits and Vegetables: Incorporate a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals. Foods high in vitamin C (like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers) and vitamin A (like sweet potatoes and carrots) are particularly beneficial.
• Protein: Lean proteins from sources like chicken, fish, beans, and legumes provide the building blocks for immune cells and antibodies.
• Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats. They provide essential nutrients and fiber, which support digestive health and overall immune function.

2. Stay Hydrated

Water is crucial for maintaining every aspect of your health. It helps flush out toxins, keeps mucous membranes moist, and supports overall cellular function. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and increase your intake if you're physically active or live in a hot climate.

3. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep. Sleep is vital for a well-functioning immune system. During sleep, your body produces cytokines, proteins that help combat infections and inflammation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, and establish a regular sleep schedule to enhance your body’s natural rhythms.

4. Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress can suppress your immune system and increase your risk of illness. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial for maintaining immunity.
 

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which promote a positive mood.
• Hobbies and Social Connections: Engage in activities you enjoy and maintain strong social connections to help manage stress and support overall health.

5. Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity is not only good for your heart and muscles but also plays a role in supporting your immune system. Exercise improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps flush out bacteria from the lungs and airways. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

6. Practice Good Hygiene

Simple hygiene practices can make a significant difference in preventing the spread of germs and reducing your risk of illness.
 

• Handwashing: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before meals and after being in public places.
• Sanitizing: Keep commonly touched surfaces in your home, like doorknobs and light switches, clean and disinfected.

7. Consider Supplements Wisely

While a balanced diet should provide most of your nutrient needs, some people may benefit from supplements, especially if they have specific deficiencies or health conditions. Common supplements that support immune health include:
 

• Vitamin D: Supports immune function and bone health.
• Probiotics: Promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to overall immune health.
• Zinc: Essential for immune cell function and enzyme activity.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

8. Avoid Harmful Habits

Certain habits can weaken your immune system and negatively impact your health.
 

• Smoking: Smoking damages the respiratory system and impairs immune function. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and boost immunity.
• Excessive Alcohol: High alcohol consumption can interfere with immune function and nutrient absorption. Moderation is key.

Final Thoughts

Boosting your immunity and overall health is a holistic process that involves nourishing your body, managing stress, staying active, and practicing good hygiene. Adopting these simple, effective strategies can build a resilient immune system and enhance your overall well-being.

In the realm of elderly care, where companionship and emotional support are paramount, the role of pet therapy has emerged as a transformative form of care. As aging adults navigate the complexities of later life, the companionship and unconditional love offered by pets has proven instrumental in fostering mental and emotional well-being.

Loneliness and social isolation are pervasive issues among seniors, often leading to adverse health outcomes and diminished quality of life. The presence of a pet can alleviate feelings of loneliness by providing constant companionship and emotional support. Whether it's a playful dog, a serene cat, or even a gentle rabbit, pets offer unwavering loyalty and affection, creating meaningful connections that combat feelings of isolation.

Moreover, the routine and responsibility associated with pet ownership instill a sense of purpose and structure in seniors' lives. Caring for a pet requires regular feeding, grooming, and exercise, fostering a daily routine that promotes physical activity and mental stimulation. These activities not only enhance cognitive function but also promote a sense of accomplishment and self-worth among seniors, reinforcing their sense of purpose in later life.

One of the most profound benefits of pet therapy for seniors lies in its ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Interacting with pets has been shown to trigger the release of oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins –  known for their role in promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. The act of petting a dog or cuddling with a cat can induce a sense of calmness and contentment, serving as a natural antidote to the stresses of daily life.

Furthermore, pet therapy has been linked to improvements in cardiovascular health among seniors. Studies have demonstrated that petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure and heart rate, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular ailments. Beyond the physical and emotional benefits, pet therapy also fosters social engagement and connection among seniors. Walking a dog in the park or participating in pet therapy sessions provides opportunities for meaningful social interaction with fellow pet owners and caregivers. These interactions serve as catalysts for building new friendships and fostering a sense of community, which is essential for combating social isolation and promoting mental wellness.

Pet therapy offers a multifaceted approach to enhancing the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of seniors. By fostering companionship, promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and fostering social connections, pets play a pivotal role in enriching the lives of older adults.

If you’d like help finding a pet rescue organization or another opportunity for your loved one to interact with animals, please give us a call today at 831-641-1087.

At BrightStar Care of The Monterey Peninsula, we deeply understand the interconnected nature of physical and mental health. All too often, our physical and mental health are treated as two separate concepts. However, when we concurrently prioritize both our physical and mental health together as fundamental aspects of our overall health and well-being, we can ultimately live even more fulfilling, loving, and joyful lives!

Furthermore, a focus on positive mental health can significantly benefit our physical health by reducing risk factors for various health conditions such as heart disease, and making it easier for individuals to live more active lifestyles that promote exercise and nutritional eating.  

The Mind and Body Connection:

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest in physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and even cardiovascular issues. On the other hand, physical ailments like chronic pain or illness can increase feelings of depression and hopelessness, leading to a downward spiral in  our mental well-being. This is particularly true of seniors, who are often isolated or lonely during precisely the time that their health is declining.

The brain is the command center of both mental and physical processes, directing all of our hormones, neurotransmitters, and immune responses. Stress, for instance, triggers the release of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, which, when chronically elevated, can impair immune function, disrupt sleep patterns, and contribute to a host of physical ailments. 

Exercise Benefits the Whole Body:

Engaging in regular physical activity is not only beneficial for cardiovascular health and weight management, but also works to combat stress and anxiety. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that promote feelings of well-being and relaxation. In addition, physical activity fosters neurogenesis, the growth of new neurons in the brain, which is associated with improved cognitive function and resilience against stress.

Nutrition for the Brain and Body:

Nutrition has a profound influence on mental well-being. The gut, often referred to as the "second brain," houses a complex ecosystem of microbes that communicate bidirectionally with the central nervous system. Research suggests that the gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in regulating mood, cognition, and even behavior. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids not only nourishes the body but also supports optimal brain function and emotional resilience.

As BrightStar Care takes care of our clients, we keep in mind the true interconnectedness of physical and mental health. We want to leave our clients healthier – and happier – than when we met them! 

For many families, the decision of how best to care for aging loved ones is difficult and emotionally challenging. As we age, it becomes harder to remain independent, and round-the-clock care may become necessary later in life. Fortunately, many providers offer 24-hour home care services with an emphasis on patient comfort, safety and dignity. These services take place in a familiar, relaxing environment. Learn more about 24-hour home care, its advantages and how BrightStar Care of The Monterey Peninsula can make a difference in your life.

What Is 24-Hour Care? 

Family caregivers do an excellent job of caring for their loved ones; but many are not professionally trained and may not know what kind of support their loved one needs. Here's where 24-hour home care comes in. This multi-faceted service offers constant assistance for those who cannot live on their own. Providers may include a range of services in-home care packages, including the following:
 

• Meal preparation and clean-up
• Assistance with dressing and personal hygiene
• Mobility help
• Medication reminders
• Transportation
• Companion care
• Light housekeeping

When Is 24-Hour Care Necessary? 

All-day home care provides extra support for those who can no longer complete daily activities by themselves. It is rather difficult to give a general answer about when home care will be required, as every individual is different. However, here are some signs that 24-hour in-home support is necessary:
 

• Your loved one has been diagnosed with a physically degenerative illness (such as Parkinson’s) or a cognitive disease (like Alzheimer's or dementia)
• Your loved one has specialized needs that a family caregiver can't meet
• Family caregivers are not available throughout the day and night
• Family caregivers need a break to recharge and to focus on their own lives

Knowing Your Loved Ones are Being Cared For 

The main benefit of 24-hour home care is round-the-clock healthcare services. Someone will always be around to help your loved one with daily activities, even through the night. During this time, the patient can still engage in the activities they have always enjoyed, such as visiting friends or attending community events.

Enjoy Greater Peace of Mind

Home care may be geared toward the individual receiving support, but it also provides respite care for the families. You will have peace of mind knowing someone is always available to help your loved one. Instead of worrying about the unexpected, you can feel secure in the knowledge that if emergencies happen, they are handled swiftly by trained professionals.

Continue Care in the Comfort of Home 

24-hour home care services enable individuals to stay in their homes while receiving the care they need. Moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility is a challenging transition, and most seniors would prefer to remain in their familiar homes where they feel happy and comfortable. With home care, your loved one will receive top-notch care from experienced professionals while staying in familiar surroundings.

Allowing for Independence and Socialization

Independence is a key 24-hour home care benefit. No one likes being unable to do what they love, and home care services allow older folks to continue to live by themselves. They can maintain control over their daily routine and keep up with their favorite activities with the help of a home care professional. Seniors who take advantage of home care can choose to remain close to friends and family, minimizing the sense of isolation that often comes with aging.

The Cost of 24-Hour Care Services

Many people worry that 24-hour home health care services are too expensive for their loved ones. However, the cost of 24-hour in-home care varies greatly, and it is possible to find a service that fits within your budget. Many people wonder if Medicaid will pay for 24-hour home care. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward, and coverage can vary by state. Some states allow for this type of care, but others prioritize care in skilled nursing facilities. In general, Medicaid tends to pay for some form of in-home care. Nevertheless, it’s essential to check your policy to learn more about the extent of coverage.

Why Choose BrightStar for 24-Hour Care

As you explore home care options for your loved one, consider BrightStar Care of The Monterey Peninsula . Our team is knowledgeable in this approach to senior care, and we can help you take an important step toward your loved one’s well-being. Each caregiver is carefully screened, and trained to guarantee optimal services and boost seniors’ quality of life. Our clients rest easy knowing our team is available 24/7 should any issues arise. 

Sources:

1. National Library of Medicine(Opens in a new window)
2. Medicaid Planning Assistance(Opens in a new window)
3. Forbes Health

Humans are social creatures who crave companionship, seek out personal connections, and find solace in shared experiences. The coronavirus pandemic began more than a year ago, and virtual interactions are still the safest way to connect with vulnerable individuals. During this time of limited social exposure, it’s normal for feelings of isolation and loneliness to emerge. 
 
Social distancing has been particularly hard on already-homebound seniors, who have received fewer visits and had less opportunity to venture into the community—not because of neglect but out of fear for their safety. The country is moving in the right direction with vaccinations helping to reduce new surges of the virus. Still, until things return to normal, it’s important to continue connecting virtually with your senior loved ones, especially those with health concerns, to let them know you care. It’s not the same as face-to-face contact, but technology can still provide social benefits and improve mental health. 
 
Phone Calls 
 
If your senior loved one is tech-averse, a good old-fashioned phone call is a great place to start. If your loved one doesn’t already have a cell phone, there are plenty of easy-to-use smartphones for seniors out there. The trick is to initiate the call yourself. Many seniors don’t want to be a burden, so picking up the phone, even for a five-minute conversation, can lighten your loved one’s mental load and provide a much-needed social outlet. 
 
Text Messages and Emails  
 
Sometimes a quick “I love you” text goes a long way. Show your senior family member how to text if they don’t already know how. Emails are also a useful way to spread joy. Consider starting a monthly family newsletter to let everyone know what you’ve been up to, share interesting news stories or funny memes, and send family photos. 
 
Video Chats 
 
Video chatting has revolutionized the way we communicate virtually. It’s the next best thing to in-person interactions, making it a must for seniors to learn how to use. First, find a good tablet or laptop for seniors to provide your loved one with a large, portable screen for chatting. Then, pick a platform, such as FaceTime (for iOS devices), Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts. Teach your loved one how to use the platform, and you’ll open up a range of ways to stay connected. If your loved one has in-home help, their caregiver can often facilitate video chats if technology is a challenge. 
 
If your schedule allows, pick a time to video chat with your senior loved one once a week, giving them something to look forward to if they start feeling lonely. Your visits don’t have to be a sit-down conversation. You may arrange to cook the same meal “together,” enjoy a cup of coffee while sitting on your respective balconies, or pray with one another before bed. 
 
Once your senior loved one is comfortable receiving video calls, consider setting up a virtual reunion where multiple family members join the chat all at once. You may even arrange this as a surprise for your loved one so you can relish the look of joy that spreads across their face when they see so many familiar faces on their phone, tablet, or computer screen. 
 
Social Media 
 
About seven out of 10 Americans are on Facebook, and seniors are the fastest-growing segment on the platform. Instagram, a photo and video-sharing social network, is another option. Help your senior loved one set up an account and connect with family members who are already on social media. You can also explain how to post updates of their own, find local and online events, join groups, and more. 
 
Marco Polo 
 
This messaging app is like having a video walkie-talkie. Marco Polo is a great way for seniors to connect with busy family members because it allows users to send high-quality videos of themselves or something they’re doing, and the recipients can respond at their leisure. The app comes in a free version, but a paid subscription unlocks more features. 
 
Virtual Story Time with Grandkids 
 
Readeo is an app that lets your senior loved one have virtual story time with the grandkids. The platform has over 150 children’s books to choose from, which can be read together through the integrated BookChat. Guest memberships are limited to the book of the month, while members pay $9.99 per month for full library access and unlimited chatting. 
 
Virtual Movie Nights 
 
Do you miss getting together for movie nights with your loved ones? Hold a virtual watch party! Amazon Prime members can pull up a movie on their computer and click Watch Party to stream with up to 100 friends at once. Teleparty is another option. Simply install the free Chrome browser extension to sync the video you and your loved ones are watching on Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or HBO. 
 
Letters 
 
Letter writing isn’t exactly the latest technology, but that’s why it may appeal so much to your senior loved ones. Stock up on stationery, envelopes, and stamps—buy some for your family members as well—and become pen pals! Consider having children in the family draw special pictures to include in your letters as well. This is a great way for multigenerational families to bond. Plus, there’s something special about receiving a handwritten letter in the mail. 
 
Special Deliveries 
 
Letters aren’t the only thing you can have delivered to your loved one’s door. Surprise them with a bouquet of flowers, a care package of their favorite goodies, or a delicious meal from a local restaurant. Small gestures like this can make your family member’s day, no matter how far away you live. 
 
Home Care Services 
 
With so many opportunities to connect virtually, it’s clear that being physically distant doesn’t have to stop you from bonding with your senior loved ones. Still, you may have concerns about their daily health and safety that you can’t attend to from afar. That’s where home care services come in. At BrightStar Care we follow national patient safety goals and CDC guidelines to ensure we can care for your loved one safely in their home. 
 
Our nurses, CNAs, and caregivers believe that caring is more than just a job—it’s a way of life. We offer the most professional, compassionate care available in the comforting, familiar surroundings of home. With a full range of in-home services to choose from, we’re sure to meet your loved one’s changing needs.