Thursday, May 23, 2019
Why is it important for seniors to care for their vision?
It’s often said that the eyes are the window to the soul, but it’s also true that the eyes are the window to the world. Without our vision, we are significantly more out of touch with the world around us. In order to prevent vision loss in seniors, it’s important for older individuals and their caretakers to take steps to protect the eyes. In honor of Cataract Awareness Month and Vision Research Month,...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Have you ever considered a gift to CareLink?
If you check the mail, turn on the TV, answer the unknown caller, or get on social media, there’s a good possibility you will see an organization or friend asking for donations.
Sometimes, it can seem overwhelming.
Should you feel called to support one of these entities and get past the bombardment of requests, there are still decisions to make. Who does what? What causes matter to me? How much can I donate? How do I know my money is...
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at Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Thursday, May 9, 2019
Choosing the Best Books for Caregivers
Being a caregiver, especially a family caregiver, comes with many challenges, and it can be lonely when you don’t know where to turn for help, advice, or encouragement. Luckily, there are several books on caregiving that offer sound advice on several topics, including:
How to find time for self-care when you’re a full-time family caregiver
How to ask for help from others when you feel overwhelmed
How to cope with...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, May 9, 2019
Thursday, April 18, 2019
NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES
Some wear scrubs and care for the elderly
The Importance of Elder Caregivers
care·giv·er /ˈkerˌɡivər/ noun: a family member or paid helper who regularly looks after a child or a sick, elderly, or disabled person.
Earlier this month, Mike Smith, MSN, RN, and I, Meredith Hale, went to North Little Rock High School to meet with students studying to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Initially, we were there to tell...
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at Thursday, April 18, 2019
Friday, April 5, 2019
5 Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering is beneficial for both you and others, since it offers physical and mental benefits for both the person helping and the person being helped. Research has shown that volunteering improves mental health and builds confidence while also providing opportunities to meet others who share like-minded goals and hobbies - the perfect chance to meet friends and significant others who also enjoy giving back to their community and to those in need. Need...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, April 5, 2019
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
How Can I Leave a Lasting Legacy?
It is an unfortunate fact of life that there will come a day when each and every one of us will pass on from this world. We all want to leave behind a better world for our children, grandchildren, and future generations. From lending a helping hand to someone in need and volunteering to leaving a lasting legacy which will help provide for those in need for years to come, there are countless ways to begin forming a lasting legacy today.
...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
HOW TO BATTLE THE EFFECTS OF AGING ON SLEEP
READ TIME: 6 MINUTES
You snooze you lose!
Or is it, when you don’t snooze you lose?
Regardless, we spend one-third of our lives sleeping. So why don’t we give it the credit it’s due?
Take a trip down memory lane for a minute.
When we’re born, our exhausted parents pray for sleep so they can maybe squeeze in an hour or two. As we grow into toddlers, our parents covet those afternoon naps because it means...
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at Wednesday, March 6, 2019
Monday, February 11, 2019
How do I find help as a caregiver?
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving , more than 75 million Americans serve as caregivers for elderly and disabled individuals. As a friend, family member, neighbor, or a paid caregiver, you shoulder a heavy burden and provide invaluable help for someone in need, but where can a caregiver find help when you’re the one in need?
From burnout and exhaustion to anxiety and depression, caregivers bear many difficulties. You don’t...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Monday, February 11, 2019
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Read Time: 6 minutes, 11 seconds
Taking your first sip of coffee, you think about the warmth of the mug in your hands, how the sunlight beaming through the window warms your cheek. Savoring the delicious liquid mixture of confidence and energy, you look across the table at your mother.
This is part of your Saturday routine, your weekly talks with her. But something doesn’t seem right. You no longer feel the warmth of your mug, notice the sun shining on your face, or the taste of...
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at Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Monday, January 14, 2019
The loss of a loved one can be a very difficult time. In addition to wading through legal documents and getting arrangements in order, feelings of depression, loneliness, anger, and other emotions can be difficult to process. How do you heal from the loss of a loved one? Grieving is different for everyone, but here a few ways to help you feel like there is a sense of order during a stressful and sometimes chaotic time..
The 5 Stages of Grief
The five stages of grief are a set of...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Monday, January 14, 2019
Thursday, January 3, 2019
I was somewhere in my middle school years, visiting family in Asheville, North Carolina, when my aunt told me we were going to deliver meals to older people. She had a friend who volunteered with Meals on Wheels but was unable that day, so my aunt said she would. Those moments spent delivering lunch to men and women unable to prepare a meal themselves was just the beginning of the route I would take to CareLink.
But before we dive into my story, let me introduce myself. My name is Meredith...
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at Thursday, January 3, 2019
Monday, December 17, 2018
If you haven’t unpacked all your cold weather clothing, the time is now. Winter is here. While the temperature may not consistently reflect the season, it’s best to be prepared for when those temps drop, especially if you are 55 or older.
In the winter months, or December – April for Arkansans, drops in temperature can be drastic and sporadic. When cold temperatures hit the forecast, illnesses like hypothermia become a concern.
Unlike hyperthermia in the summer ,...
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at Monday, December 17, 2018
Monday, December 3, 2018
Ways to Volunteer in Little Rock
Did you know more than one third of those living in poverty in Little Rock and North Little Rock are children and teens under the age of 18, while more than 15 percent are age 55 or older, and more than 10 percent are single mothers?
It’s easy for us to forget how fortunate we are in the mundane routine of daily life if we are not required to worry about how we will pay the utility bill or find food and shelter for our children. Coming face to...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Monday, December 3, 2018
Friday, November 2, 2018
Supporting Family Caregivers
As we get older, we realize how real the conversation with family is about caring for a loved one, especially if that loved one is yourself. For many, that conversation ends with someone in the family taking on the role of caregiver. At CareLink, we know the trials and successes that come with caregiving, which is why we are sharing ways to show support and say “Thank you” to the caregivers in your life in recognition of National Family Caregivers...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, November 2, 2018
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Medicare Open Enrollment for 2019 runs October 15 through December 7. At CareLink, we know finding a health care plan can be confusing,s o we’re sharing information about getting enrolled in Medicare and the various supplemental plans offered. We have a team of trained staff offering free Part D plan reviews throughout the open enrollment period to help alleviate the stress and confusion many can have when choosing the right policy.
How Do I Enroll for Medicare?
Some...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Monday, September 10, 2018
In honor of National Medic Alert Awareness Month, we’ve put together a complete guide to medical alert systems, including a review of the best medical alert systems on the market. Learn more about how medical alert systems work, the benefits of investing in one for you or a loved one, and which medical alert system is right for your needs.
What is a medical alert system?
A medical alert system is a device that can be used to notify family members or neighbors and...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Monday, September 10, 2018
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
People age differently. One person may be able to live independently well into their 80’s, while another may need in-home care many years before that. There are a number of signs that can indicate that you should look into whether or not your loved one is in need of senior in-home care.
Top Signs To Look Out For
Change in Appearance & Personality
A change in physical appearance and behavior can be a big indicator of your senior loved one needing a little extra help...
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Posted by
Canny Beasley
at
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
Staying active as you age is essential to your health, both mental and physical. Maintaining an active lifestyle helps boost energy, maintain independence, and more. Some studies even say it can help increase your lifespan. By doing some sort of physical exercise, you will maintain better overall health and well-being.
Physical Health
Weight Loss or Maintenance
Once we say goodbye to our twenties, we come to the realization that our metabolism slows down as we age. You can...
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Posted by
Canny Beasley
at
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
Friday, August 24, 2018
Did you know older people are in danger of heat related-illnesses, even when the temperature is less than 100 degrees? Fall may be around the corner, but as Arkansans, we know summer temperatures are not going away any time soon. Family, friends and loved ones over the age of 60 are more at-risk than their younger counterparts to experience heat-related illnesses.
Here are a few tips to ensure your older loved ones and friends minimize their risk of heat-related illnesses like...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, August 24, 2018
Friday, June 1, 2018
Legal Assistance for Seniors
With the process of aging comes many physical and mental challenges. At CareLink, our goal is to help educate, equip, and assist elderly members of the Little Rock community, as well as their caregivers and family members on topics ranging from Social Security and Medicare enrollment to personal finance and legal assistance. That’s why we connect you with legal consultation services to help you make the most of legal resources at your disposal.
REQUEST...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, June 1, 2018
Monday, May 7, 2018
Most seniors prefer to live in the privacy of their own homes over retirement communities and nursing home facilities, and understandably so. The freedom and independence of living in one’s home can do wonders for physical and mental health.
Organizations like CareLink seek to support homebound seniors and their caregivers by providing a wealth of resources, but there are many things caregivers and those who are homebound can do to make the most of independent living.
I’M A...
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Posted by
Canny Beasley
at
Monday, May 7, 2018
Monday, April 16, 2018
Caregiving comes with its own unique circumstances and understandings between the caregiver and patient. This is especially true if the person who needs care is obese.
Regardless of whether your patient is a family member or employer, bed-bound or able; if they are obese, there are certain precautions you must take while caring for them. First and foremost, you must protect your patient and yourself from injury. As a caregiver, you are there to give aid and assistance and work to...
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at Monday, April 16, 2018
Monday, April 2, 2018
Caring for a loved one is one of the most selfless things a person can do. When things get difficult or feel overwhelming, it’s important to reach out to people and resources that can help.
At CareLink, our mission is to support older people in the central Arkansas area. However, it is just as valuable to support the caregivers in our community who dedicate their lives, time, energy, and hearts into helping a loved one.
Since April is National Stress Awareness Month, we’ve put...
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Posted by
Canny Beasley
at
Monday, April 2, 2018
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Did you know that in March of 1972, Meals on Wheels was first established? To honor this important anniversary, we want to share some of the reasons Meals on Wheels is so special!
If you have ever received a warm meal from a friend, family member, or coworker, you know how important that meal means to you. It’s a sign of care and thoughtfulness, prepared for you usually during times of stress, illness, grief, or a big life change.
Consider how a meal can change a life for many...
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at Thursday, March 1, 2018
Valentine’s Day might be just around the corner, but our hearts are aflutter for another reason!
February is also heart health awareness month, and there is no better way to care for your heart than through proper diet and exercise. Focusing on ways to care for your heart, particularly through cardiovascular exercise, can make an amazing difference in your lifestyle
Cardiovascular exercise is critical to our health, especially as we age. When our hearts are pumping, our blood is...
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Guest Author: Alex Smith, Business Developer at iProv, LLC
Recently, my boss came into our usual Monday morning meeting. He gave his little spiel and then wrapped up by sharing an idea with us. He wanted our team to take advantage of a volunteer opportunity with a local nonprofit, CareLink - a company I had much familiarity with already. I'll get to that in a sec.
RJ, my boss, suggested we volunteer for CareLink’s Meals on Wheels program. He explained that we...
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As you begin to age, exercise is more important than ever before. Consistent exercise can boost energy, maintain your independent and manage symptoms of illness and pain. Exercise can even REVERSE some of the symptoms of aging. Exercise is not only good for your body but your mind, mood and memory as well!
5 Myths About Exercise and Aging
Myth 1: There’s no real benefits of exercise, especially for older people.
Fact: Exercise and strength training helps you look and...
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Friday, January 5, 2018
For many of us, a new year offers many opportunities to start fresh. Finding ways to feel good, give back, and create good habits fill our resolution to-do lists, and we look forward to diving into new goals and projects.
If one of your resolutions for 2018 includes helping others, there’s no better place to invest your time and energy than with CareLink! As the leading provider of services for seniors throughout central Arkansas, CareLink has a variety of volunteer needs and tasks...
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at Friday, January 5, 2018
Monday, April 3, 2017
When Carrie showed up for her first CareLink Fitness & Wellness class, she was looking for a change. “I was having some weight issues and some blood pressure issues. I decided, since those issues ran in my family, I really needed to take control of it. I have access to this great facility so I am taking full advantage of it.”
"I’ve lost 45 pounds and it has given me more energy.” Health and weight loss are not the only changes CareLink’s fitness classes...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Monday, April 3, 2017
Friday, July 22, 2016
Meals are often more than just a lunch. Carl and Suzie moved from Illinois to enjoy their retirement. A former photographer, Suzie had spent time in Arkansas while traveling for her job. She loved the area - especially the capitol city of Little Rock. After much contemplation, the couple sold their property and headed to the natural state. Suzie and Carl were now far from their families and children but remained confident in their decision as they settled in to their new home.
However,...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, July 22, 2016
Thursday, June 16, 2016
CareLink volunteers and board members enjoyed an evening celebrating Meals on Wheels at last month's Tales from the Route. The evening highlighted the heart of Meals on Wheels with selected stories straight from our very own volunteers.
Four speakers shared their experiences from the route in a series of tales that were both heart-warming and humorous. From encounters with a clown-collecting carny to the chronicles of a unique friendship between one volunteer and her client, the...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
A
beloved staff member, Debbie Gillespie retired last month after almost 38 years
of service at CareLink. In her time with the organization, Debbie served as a
Care Coordinator, Care Coordinator Manager and, finally, as Outreach Manager. She reflects on her time with us
at CareLink and what has kept her motivated all these years.
“It has been a privilege
and an honor to be a part of CareLink’s mission,” Debbie began. “I have always
loved older people and have a passion for...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Arkansans
have a heart for giving! Join others across the state on April 7
for ArkansasGives Day. This 12-hour online giving event is all about
helping nonprofits grow stronger by encouraging our entire state to donate on a
single day. Last year, ArkansasGives raised almost $2 million from public
donors. Overall, $2.33 million was distributed to nonprofits across the state,
including prizes and bonus dollars.
As
a special incentive to give, each gift made through...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Thursday, November 5, 2015
We are so happy to announce that CareLink’s 1st annual Cupcakes for Goodness Sake fundraiser was quite the success! Through this new event, CareLink raised $61,650 for the Meals on Wheels program - $44,000 in sponsorships, donations, and ticket, auction and raffle sales, as well as $18,000 from in-kind contributions. Nearly 300 attendees were brought face-to-face with the CareLink message right in our own Meals on Wheels kitchen. Several media outlets took an interest in the event,...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Staying fit and active is an important part of aging! We love to hear
inspiring stories from those who stay moving
CareLink recently had the opportunity to chat with two amazing athletes
and ultra-marathon runners, Lou Peyton and Pete Ireland. The two have been
running for nearly half a century and have much to say about the sport. Take a look at these inspiring interviews and the runners’ advice for
other seniors who want to stay active and healthy. Q. How long have you been a...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Thursday, August 20, 2015
As part of our baker bio series, CareLink is excited to introduce Dempsey Bakery as a participant in the upcoming Cupcakes for Goodness Sake competition.Established in 2011, Dempsey Bakery is not the average bake shop. All of the products served in this adorable, 1950's-themed establishment are 100% gluten, wheat, soy and nut free! Many options are also egg, dairy and sugar free.After coping with food allergies, gluten intolerance and special dietary needs in her family, owner and founder,...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Friday, July 17, 2015
For Kelli Marks, owner of Sweet Love, baking is a beloved hobby
turned business. Kelli's passion for things sweet began when she took on the
challenge of creating a special cake for her grandparents' 50th wedding
anniversary. For months, she experimented with recipes and decorating
techniques and, when she saw the final product, she was in awe. From that point
forward, she was hooked! She continued to try new things, practicing by baking
cakes for her nephews' birthdays. Several years later,...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Friday, July 17, 2015
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
As you know, CareLink will
be hosting a new special event, "Cupcakes for Goodness Sake" in the
fall. Local professional bakers and cupcake shops will be challenged to present
all-sweet, cupcake versions of Meals on Wheels. We promised more information
about the event and would like to start by introducing each of our four
participating bakers. First up: Christy Milligan, owner of Cupcakes on
Kavanaugh, Arkansas' first cupcake bakery. With a background in food and nutrition, a cupcake shop isn't...
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Posted by
Meredith Hale
at
Wednesday, June 17, 2015