Cloverleaf Care

Cloverleaf Care is a Home Care Agency where we believe in promoting independence and quality of life for seniors and adults with special needs by providing at home care in private homes, independent and assisted living centers, hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities. Our In-home care services range from a few hours to around-the-clock 24/7 live-in care based on individual needs. The Care you Choose Matters. Experience the difference with Cloverleaf Care's Home Care Services.

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Home with family - what better place for the holidays?

Thanksgiving is perhaps one holiday that no one likes to be away from home. The tradition of families coming together and spending time together is the one thing that everyone looks forward to the whole year. When I meet elderly patients who are at a hospital or nursing home during Thanksgiving, I sense such a longing and strong desire to be home with family and friends.

Today I am going to write about being able to safely remain at home, about aging with independence and safety, and avoiding long stays at a medical facility. It is an enormously big topic - both in the breadth of the subject itself and how many people would relate to this subject matter, but also how critically personal and subjective it is at the same time. It falls within the domain of some of life’s most critical considerations and ensuing actions that many of us are faced with at some point in our lives.

With that humility, I will today write about some home safety pointers from having worked with seniors over the last two decades. In my humble opinion, it just begins to scratch the surface.

The one thing that stands out the most to me is mindfulness of one’s limitations. As we age, there are certain activities that become difficult to perform. Things we could once do with ease - making the bed, doing the laundry - anything that may require bending, lifting, standing for too long. Even going from a standing position to sitting down, or vice versa can cause difficulty because of weakening muscles. Even though it is normal and natural, it may feel terribly frustrating. Accepting these limitations with grace does not mean that one has to lose one’s independence. Adapting to the change is a first step towards continuing to have a wholesome and fulfilling life at home.

Some simple safety measures and help is all that is really needed for an elderly person to remain safe at home and stay independently in their own homes as long as they wish to do so. And if you need assistance with personal care and homecare during the holiday season, then simply call us for a free consultation and we will help you create a custom plan for you to stay safely at home. 

Install handrails in bathrooms and corridors.

Perhaps the biggest culprit in causing falls and injuries is getting in and out of the shower. You should use a walk-in shower which is level with the floor of the bathroom.

Use a shower chair in the shower. Check this off your list please, it is easy and a game changer in showering safely.

Use a walker to get around safely in the home. If you are resisting this, then I know what you are thinking. And “No” no one else is going to think that way at all.

Use Cloverleaf Care’s Concierge Services for help with things like laundry, shopping, errands, making the bed, preparing meals. Enjoy the holidays by spending quality time with your loved ones, not laboring on chores - let us help you with the mundane.

“Like” us on Facebook. We can’t wait to hear from you! If your friends and loved ones can benefit from this topic, then invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and genuine content that we put together just for you.

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A Gift of Caring

The Holidays always seem to bring up a plethora of feelings! From the joyful glee in a child’s eyes, to the longing feelings of memories past, it can be a roller coaster of emotions. Today as we were sharing joys and laughter with our clients over a virtual Holiday Party I started reminiscing about one of our clients - wonderful Anne. In 2018, we were fortunate to meet Anne, and she has been our client ever since. 

You see, back in 2018, when traveling was a lot easier, Anne’s son and daughter - who lived in the same city as their mom - wanted to travel for the holidays. With their desire to travel came feelings of worry… would Anne be ok all by herself? She loves to walk the dogs, but what if she fell? Anne’s memory was not as good as it once was, what if she locked herself out of her house, or did not take her heart medication? The worry was almost too much, and Anne’s son, Will, told his wife and kids that he did not feel comfortable leaving Anne, and maybe they should just visit his wife’s family without him. Anne’s daughter, Abby, was in a similar predicament. They knew that Anne was fairly independent in her home, and did not need around the clock care by any means, but it would be so helpful to have someone nearby for Anne. Anne, the feisty, strong and independent woman that she is, told her son and daughter, “Do not worry for one more minute... go! Enjoy your travels!” This still did not quite convince Abby and Will. 

During that first conversation with Abby and Will, my heart began to swell because I knew that we would not only be helping Anne, but as we do with so many of our clients, we would be able to provide a service to the entire family. Sure enough, when we began service the very next week, Abby and Will prepared to set off on their travels. Will was there to greet Anne’s new caregiver on her first day, and the relief in his tone was palpable. Anne’s caregiver Donna was to visit once a day for a brief time to walk with Anne and the dogs, make sure Anne was taking her medications, and provide some lovely companionship that felt extra appreciated while Anne’s kids were away. As independent as Anne is, she quickly came to look forward to Donna’s company, meal preparation, and simple tasks that made her life a little more enriched. 

That Christmas back in 2018, Abby and Will felt so much relief knowing that their beloved mother was not alone. On Christmas Day, Donna helped Anne access a Zoom call where Anne not only got to visit with Abby and Will, but her other children and grandchildren! When Abby called us after the New Year, she explained how much she enjoyed being able to check in on the mobile app to see any updates on Anne. Donna, like all of our caregivers, leaves careful notes after each shift, so Anne’s son and daughter are able to see that Anne is walking, eating, taking her medications, and staying happy and healthy each and every day. “That peace of mind is priceless!” Abby told us.  

When I received Anne’s Christmas card in the mail today, seeing her smiling face, reading her handwritten message, I felt a wave of emotion overcome me as I thought of her and her beautiful family.  To myself and our associates at Cloverleaf Care, this work is so much more than simply “work.” Each client's story, and each day we are able to help them, feels like a purpose - a wonderful journey of which  we are so very fortunate to be a part for a while. 

Call us today to find out what we can do for you. If you enjoyed learning more about Cloverleaf Care, then please “Like” us on Facebook and post a review online. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones, so that they too can learn about the vast benefits of In-home care with Cloverleaf Care!  You can also invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and original content that we put together just for you.

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Your Partner in Care

For many, the holidays hold fond memories of time spent with loved ones. I am fortunate to have wonderful memories growing up with my family, gathered around my grandparent’s living room, kitchen, and dining room table, where the holiday magic happened. To this day I am fortunate to visit my grandparents for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, cooking warm posole and beans, and eating warm sugar cookies. As my younger cousins get into mischief while the adults enjoy some much needed time off work, it is clear that my grandparents are the heart of the family. Our family is so grateful for my grandparent’s ability to stay in their own home through the help of In-home caregivers. I can’t imagine what it would be like to no longer be able to have holidays at my grandparent’s house. 

It wasn’t easy getting my grandparents on board to accept help, but our family is so relieved that they finally agreed. My grandfather was especially resistant, insisting that he did not need any help, he was fine just as he was. As a family, we were able to talk to him about the various levels of care that Cloverleaf Care offered, and after trying out the Concierge Services a  few times, he was able to see the value the caregivers added to his life. Now we are all in a happy agreement of caregiver visits a few times a week.  

Cloverleaf Care brings families together by providing the most flexible and highest quality In-home care for your aging or special needs loved one. We treat your family like our own. We know how important it is for the well-being of our clients to stay connected to their families. We offer many avenues to help keep you connected, such as our “Elle” Tele-Care services which are hugely popular because of the “touchless” care while providing that peace of mind to family members.  Our “Assure” Wellness check has been another boon to our clients’ families who can now rest assured that their loved ones are taking care of themselves, especially in these times of isolation. Our client Martin lives alone and thrives with our “Assure” Wellness check. Martin and his family knew Martin did not need daily care, but they wanted someone to be able to check in on him regularly to make sure everything was well for Martin. Alexandria checks in with Martin regularly and Martin has come to enjoy her companionship and ways she can make his life so much easier. His family is relieved that on their busiest days, they know Martin is in great hands. More so, we are able to provide some essential medication reminders with a personal touch. One of our caregivers Alexandria calls Martin twice a day, not only reminding him to take his medication, but to ask how his day is and how he is doing. Martin loves these phone calls and looks forward to filling in Alexandria each day about all of his thoughts and plans. 

We know what it’s like to worry about your loved one while you can’t be near them. Rest assured, we pride ourselves in being extremely communicative with families, so if there is ever a change in your loved ones condition you will know immediately. This is vital to ensuring your loved one gets the help they need when they need it! We love embracing technology to bring people together. Caregiver Joyce and our client Patsy love using technology to connect with her daughter who lives about an hour away. Each evening, Joyce helps Patsy with a Skype call to her daughter. They share stories and laughs, and it helps Joyce know that Patsy is in the best of hands. 

We know you want what is best for the people you love the most. The wide range of Homecare services from Cloverleaf Care allows your loved one to thrive in place, enjoying the independence they love with the companionship and professional care received from an awesome caregiver. Our clients feel empowered to continue doing the things they love in the comfort of their own home, allowing for excellent physical and mental well being. Our clients feel safe and confident with the one-on-one attention of their caregiver. Our clients regularly share with us that nothing beats the comforts of their own home, surrounded by their belongings and memories which they know and love! 

We know that you want  what is best for your loved ones, and we are confident that with the industry’s widest range of services that we provide, you will find one that is just right for your needs.

Our services are custom designed with your needs in mind, from our Thrive Concierge Services to provide your loved one as-needed assistance, to our Elle Tele-Care services keeping you connected through technology, to our Home Transitions Program which is ideal for anyone going through surgery or rehabilitation. We hire only the best caregivers to ensure every need of your loved one is exceeded with compassion and professionalism. We are your partner in care, and we pride ourselves in keeping families connected and keeping your loved one thriving at home! 

Call us today to find out what we can do for you. If you enjoyed learning more about Cloverleaf Care, then please “Like” us on Facebook and post a review online. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones, so that they too can learn about the vast benefits of In-home care with Cloverleaf Care! You can also invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and original content that we put together just for you.

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Don’t let the cool...fool you

My grandmother does not like drinking water. She never has been much of a water drinker, unlike my grandfather who loves to keep small water bottles in the fridge and drinks cool water no matter how cold it is outside! My grandmother says that it is even harder to remember to drink water in the cool weather because she doesn’t feel like she gets thirsty like she does in the hot days of summertime. This got me thinking about how many people struggle to drink enough water in the winter cold, and just how important it is to make sure we are staying hydrated year round!

We have probably all heard it at some point, but the consequences of dehydration can be dire. According to the Mayo Clinic, elderly adults have a lower volume of water in their bodies, and many take medications that can further increase dehydration. In addition, if an elderly person is experiencing even minor medical conditions, they are more likely to become dehydrated faster. On top of all that, seniors  often are less aware of thirst! Combine this with the cold days of winter, and you may find yourself feeling even less thirsty, just like my grandmother. The cold, dry winter days can reduce the amount of water in your body. Being aware of common warning signs of dehydration can help you know what to look out for. 

Early signs of dehydration may include: 

Cramps in limbs

Headaches

Weakness

Irritability

Trouble sleeping 

Fatigue

Dizziness

Lethargy

Confusion

Inability to sweat

More advanced signs of dehydration may include:

Low blood pressure

Severe muscle cramping

Breathing faster

Rapid weak pulse

If you are experiencing symptoms of dehydration, do not hesitate to seek medical attention immediately! 

Take steps to prevent dehydration each and every day with these useful tips. 

Stay Hydrated! 

Your goal is to drink moderate amounts of water frequently, which can sometimes be easier said than done. 

Understand the severity of dehydration, and make it a personal goal to drink more water.

If you don’t like the taste of plain water (this is true of my grandmother especially!) try to spice it up a bit. Try adding fresh fruit, cucumber, or mint to your water. It can be a lot of fun to find new tasty flavor combinations, and not only are you getting something tasty but you are encouraging yourself to do something good for your health! My grandma’s favorite is lemon and mint, and my grandpa’s favorite add-ins are strawberries and fresh rosemary. The options are endless!

Try different water temperatures to find what you like the best. My grandmother encourages water intake in the winter months by heating up her water in a tea kettle and drinking it warm or even hot, sometimes with a squeeze of lemon. My grandpa on the other hand likes refrigerated ice cold water year round! Sometimes room temperature can be nice, too.

Sometimes it can be hard to remember or track how much water you have been drinking that day. Try one of these great water bottles that actually help you measure your water intake, and give you some motivation along the way! Try a bottle like this one, click here!

Increase hydration by eating foods with a high moisture content such as fruits and veggies.

Finally, remember coffee and alcohol can actually dehydrate you further, so drink sparingly.

My grandparents urge you to do all it takes to increase your water consumption for a healthy lifestyle. Dehydration can have potentially serious consequences, but there are simple steps you can take each day to be well. 

Call us today to find out what we can do for you. If you enjoyed learning more about Cloverleaf Care, then please “Like” us on Facebook and post a review online. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones, so that they too can learn about the vast benefits of In-home care with Cloverleaf Care!  You can also invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and original content that we put together just for you.

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Online Safety Tips

Just when you think you have these scammers all figured out, they are moving on from one complicated scam to the next. It can be so frustrating to see so many people targeted by internet scams, and if you have ever been a victim yourself, know that you are not alone! Unfortunately, seniors are often targets for criminals. Just about everyone has come across a scam at one point or another, and many scams are very convincing and lead smart, careful people to fall for them all of the time. 

There are several steps you can take to guard yourself from online scams. Since many of us are staying home to social distance, we find ourselves shopping online more than ever. If you do not want to bother with online shopping, we can help you. We offer a phenomenal service that can ensure you have everything you need whenever you need it, our Concierge Services are just a phone call away! Use our Concierge Services for all of your shopping needs and avoid shopping online altogether! Or, have one of our compassionate caregivers assist you with your online shopping, making the process simple and fun! 

With endless products and services available with a few clicks of the mouse, it can be hard to determine which is a safe website to shop from and which is not. Regardless of your age, the internet is always changing and it can be difficult for anyone to differentiate between safe websites and websites that may be “phishing” (which means someone is fraudulently trying to gain access to your personal information.) for your information.  Furthermore, hackers can hack into various sites to “phish” for sensitive information like your credit card and gain access to your credit card information and other sensitive information. Do not be embarrassed if you have been a victim of a scam, you would be amazed to know how many of us have been as well! 

Marcus was recently a target of a scam. He found an advertisement online for a fitness watch, and the website looked perfectly reasonable! He purchased the watch, but never received it in the mail. He tried to call the phone number listed several times, but there was no answer. Unfortunately, a few months later, he noticed someone has begun making fraudulent charges on his credit card! Marcus called his bank right away and explained the fraudulent charges. At first, he did not realize it was linked to the watch, but after he spoke with the bank he realized that was likely the culprit. Marcus was able to get his funds back in full with the help of his bank. He then cancelled the compromised credit card and got a new one. Unfortunately, scammers often target the elderly since they did not grow up using the internet and scammers like to take advantage of this fact. In fact, a study by True Link Financial found that seniors lose over $12 billion each year to online scams! We will not stand for this. Let’s protect ourselves! Some simple steps can help keep you from being a target! 

Tips for keeping yourself safe when shopping online: 

Create secure passwords: We know, passwords are a pain! Every website wants one, and it can be tempting to use the same password over and over. Resist this urge and create strong passwords that are different for every website, with a mixture of numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and symbols. Then, simply write down your passwords in a safe place that you can easily access, like a small notebook. Please be careful with this notebook or anywhere you keep your passwords, you do not want to leave it laying around where anyone can access it. Find a secure spot to keep it safe! It does take a little extra time, but we promise it’s worth it to better protect yourself online. While you’re at it, maybe you haven’t changed your passwords in a while! Go ahead and change them to something strong, and write it down in your special spot! Make a reminder to yourself to change your passwords frequently. It is worth the hassle!

Antivirus and Antimalware: Install antivirus software on your computer, but watch out for fakes! A good antivirus software helps prevent hackers from gaining access to your computer. Keep your software up to date, and run scans to look for malware on your computer. Most antivirus software will do this automatically, or prompt you to run a full scan. Be cautious with which antivirus software you choose, because there are a lot of scammers who create fake antivirus software. What a pain! If you do not know if an antivirus software is safe, try researching the name online, by Google searching the name of the software plus the word “reviews.” For example, in your google search bar, type in, “McAfee reviews.”  Of course, when in doubt, you can always ask a computer professional.

A Quick way to look up the legitimacy of a company: Did you receive an advertisement for a product that you are interested in purchasing, perhaps even an antivirus software? Try this quick tip - do a Google search for the name of the item plus the word “scam”. Read several of the results that pop up. Many times, people have come across this scam before and they are warning others online. Remember Marcus? After all of the hassle Marcus had to go through after his credit card information was stolen, he typed in the name of the watch plus the word “scam” in his search bar online. He found countless customers who were also targeted by the fraudulent company. 

We hope these tips help, and we look forward to sharing more ways to keep yourself safe online in the near future! Remember, scammers can be extremely elaborate, and they go to great lengths to make their scams appear legitimate. You are not alone! 

Use our fabulous Concierge Services or talk to your favorite caregiver about your concerns. We are here to help and support you! We care about our seniors and we want to help keep you up to date on the latest ways to stay safe.  

Call us today to find out what we can do for you. If you enjoyed learning more about Cloverleaf Care, then please “Like” us on Facebook and post a review online. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones, so that they too can learn about the vast benefits of in-home care with Cloverleaf Care!  You can also invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and original content that we put together just for you.

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Holiday Greetings and Exciting New Services!

Warm wishes to you for a wonderful Christmas and New Year! I am writing to you today to provide you with some exciting updates regarding Cloverleaf Care. 

Cloverleaf Care is entering it’s 16th year of providing exemplary In-Home Care services! In this time we have been honored to have helped thousands of families in the Bay Area and Central Valley, and to have been an integral part of their journey. This year we have expanded our service area to include San Diego county. We are excited at the opportunities to continue expanding and helping more families have a better quality of life.

Needless to say, this year has been a unique one in our history due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am sure it has been a one-of-a-kind year for you and your loved ones as well. In response to the pandemic, early on we implemented safety protocols to ensure that both our clients and our caregiver associates could continue to be safe while our essential services stay available to our clients. The situation, as I am sure you are aware, continues to evolve and we continue to adapt to stay abreast of the latest CDC, state and local recommendations and legislation. I am proud to say that we have been successful in overcoming the challenges brought on due to this fluid situation and would like to reassure you that your care continues to be our priority as we navigate through the current environment.

I am also excited to inform you of some new services that we have launched this year that truly provide a continuum of care to seniors, and allows our clients to match the right level of service to their needs. These innovative services include:

1. TOTAL CARE SOLUTION - Includes Case Management services to support clients and their families

2. HOME TRANSITIONS - Short-term services to safely transition and settle back home after a hospital or nursing home stay

3. "THRIVE” CONCIERGE SERVICE - Helps independent seniors thrive in their homes and communities with just that little bit of assistance 

4. "ASSURE” WELLNESS CHECKS -Offers peace of mind to family members that their independent loved ones are taking care of themselves

5. “ELLE” TELECARE - Our innovate “touchless” care lets families know that someone is there with their loved ones while their loved ones still enjoy their privacy, and without any risks of virus exposure

Call us (408-379-7000, 760-227-7701, 209-389-3716) to learn more about any of our industry leading services and how they may help you have more Peace of Mind and enjoy a great Quality of Life!

This year we have also launched our Newsletter which is quickly becoming the most loved reading for seniors! Our content is one of a kind and created with you in mind! From recipes to crafts, from client stories to tours of the African plains, we have an article that you will love! Check out this article to get a taste of how we make wellness fun. Of course do not miss your personal tour to Africa, click here! We could not be more happy that we can now provide such high quality stories, wellness tips and tremendous virtual experiences to our readers while they have been stuck at home. Subscribe to our newsletter so you do not miss a thing!   

Our competitive wages and benefits to our employees along with a positive and inviting work culture makes working at Cloverleaf Care a delight for all our caregivers. We take pride in providing our client base with exemplary levels of customer service and have earned the reputation of being the premier In-Home Care service provider in your community.

We continue to stay committed to the values and ideals that have guided and driven us over the last 15 years – providing the best caregivers to our clients and the industry’s most reputable support and customer service to our clients and their families as well as the widest range of services to meet every family at their level of need.

We look forward to continuing serving you in the New Year!

With Warmest Wishes for the Holiday Season,

Andy

Founder & CEO

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Birds in my Bonnet!

Ernest has become a birdwatcher over the years without even realizing it. What started as a simple hummingbird feeder hanging from his patio, has turned into a favorite hobby of his. He enjoys early mornings with his coffee on the patio, wrapped in a cozy sweater, enjoying the peace and nature the little creatures have to offer. Since Ernest has been at home more now than ever, it has sometimes been difficult to find senior activities that keep him engaged and entertained. As a very active and sociable person, social distancing has been a challenge. He used to enjoy going to the senior gym a couple times a week to stay active, but has not been able to do that. He is beginning to notice that exercise does not look quite the same as it used to, and that is okay. Embracing bird watching, a simple activity that he has always loved, has helped give him motivation to move around and get some exercise! Birdwatching changes with the seasons and always keeps Ernest interested.

Wellness comes in so many shapes and sizes, and is critical for physical and mental well-being. Age related cognitive decline - not to be confused with dementia - often involves memory loss, and can be very frustrating for those experiencing it. Fortunately, actively engaging the mind can help improve cognitive function and keep you sharper for a long time! Click here to learn about other activities that are shown to engage the mind. 

Interestingly enough, birdwatching encompasses some important contributors of wellbeing: reading, observing, and spending time in nature. According to Harvard Health Publishing, studies have shown that there is a link between spending time in nature and a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression. And get this, just exposing yourself to the sounds and sights of nature can actually lower your blood pressure and the stress hormone Cortisol! If this fascinates you, read the full article here.  

Here at Cloverleaf Care, we believe wellness should stem from something that fulfills you, something that makes you happy! Birdwatching can be a wonderful activity for wellness for any age. For elders, it can be a great opportunity to go outside, get some fresh air, and stretch your legs. It can also be done from a window if going outside isn’t always an option, especially with days getting cooler and shorter.  Birdwatching offers some surprising benefits, and we can help you get started. 

Look out for our next edition where we will show you some birds you can watch for in your own backyard! !

“Like” us on Facebook. We can’t wait to hear from you! If your friends and loved ones can benefit from this topic, then invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and genuine content that we put together just for you.

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Fend off boredom!

We have all been there - that apathetic feeling where one day just kind of melts into the next, the frustration and emptiness of boredom weighing you down and just feels impossible to shake off? Julia has always been curious and active. She spent 35 years working as a teacher, and although she has found her retirement to be much needed and much deserved, she was not prepared for all of the challenges that would come with finding new ways to spend her days. Over the years, Julia has enjoyed many social hobbies at the local senior center including joining a choir and attending Silver Sneakers workout classes.  She also enjoyed volunteering every weekend at her church, another great social outlet. However, thanks to Covid-19, her favorite group activities have come to a halt. Now, with the days growing shorter and colder, Julia is not able to spend as much time outdoors. Being the resourceful and creative person she is, she did not think the abrupt change in activities would affect her much, but she started noticing some changes within herself that she did not expect.

Julia often found herself feeling restless, fatigued, and irritable. Since her children and grandchildren live out of state, and there were travel challenges with Covid restrictions, they had only come to see her twice this whole year. She knew it wasn’t rational, but she felt like they did not care about her as much as they used to, which left her feeling sad and depleted. Feeling this way did not exactly lend way to finding new creative outlets for her boredom, and she often found herself opting to not do anything at all, or she would lose hours at a time watching television. As Julia started noticing these changes in herself, she started to consider just how much her life has changed during the pandemic, and what she might be able to do to help herself out of this pit of boredom and loneliness.

You may find that you have some things in common with Julia, and please do not underestimate what you are going through. Oftentimes, we downplay or dismiss our feelings, but boredom can actually be downright dangerous. Since the elderly tend to be at higher risk for boredom due to increased lack of social stimulation, it is vital that we protect ourselves and our loved ones from this unexpected danger. According to the International Centre on Aging, environmental factors such as chronic boredom is linked to cognitive and physical decline. Surprisingly enough, but a fact nonetheless, according to “HelpAge India”, boredom was ranked number seven out of the top ten setbacks for elderly people world wide. Of course, boredom affects each individual differently, men and women process boredom differently, and where you live can be a factor as well. 

What’s more, the International Center on Aging suggests that boredom has a more negative impact on those living in residential facilities versus those who are living in their usual communities- yet another reason to use  Homecare from Cloverleaf Care! 

With so much focus on the dangers of boredom, you may be wondering, “Well, what should I do about it?”. Great question. We have some pointers that you just have to read in our next edition!

“Like” us on Facebook. We can’t wait to hear from you! If your friends and loved ones can benefit from this topic, then invite them to subscribe to this newsletter - where we only provide unique and genuine content that we put together just for you.

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Happy Veteran’s Day!

Happy Veteran’s Day from the Cloverleaf Care family to yours!

The stories of our clients always stay with me. The first time I met our client Chuck, he allowed me to tour his home. Chuck is a World War II veteran, and as I stopped to admire some war memorabilia in a tall curio cabinet, he pointed to a tiny vial with a small piece of metal glistening inside and asked me to guess what it was. Then he told me, “This piece of shrapnel saved my life.” He began to tell me his story.  

Chuck landed on Normandy beach on June 6, 1944. He and another soldier immediately began charging forward as a team. It seemed almost like a miracle that they both made it to the top of the beach, when Chuck was hit in the shoulder and everything went black.. As he came to his senses, Chuck felt that his surroundings were eerily quiet. He found then that he was lying in a sort of ditch, and as he began to gain his senses he realized that he was surrounded by dead bodies! He grabbed his shoulder as a sudden wave of pain went through him, and he discovered that he had been shot.

Chuck began to crawl cautiously, keeping an eye out for others, and when he realized no one was around to see him, he started moving faster. He said, “I had no idea in which direction I should go or who I would meet, but I just kept moving and prayed I would not run into the enemy.” Chuck went on like this for hours, cautiously watching for enemies as his shoulder bled, and the pain in his arm kept increasing.

After what felt like forever, Chuck came across a platoon of US troops. The troops immediately took him to the medical unit to begin tending to his wounds. Once Chuck had regained his strength, the medical unit gifted him the shrapnel as a souvenir of that memorable encounter.

As Chuck finished his story I was overwhelmed with emotion and a deep sense of gratitude for his sacrifice to our country, and I felt, to each and every one of us Americans.

We thank Chuck, and all Veterans, on this Veteran’s Day for what they have done and continue to do for our country! At Cloverleaf Care we consider it as our privilege to serve them in their time of need!

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Fun activities to safely celebrate Labor Day!

Happy Labor Day from the Cloverleaf Care family to yours! We wish you a fulfilling day with your loved ones as we celebrate the achievements of American workers. The first Labor Day was celebrated in 1882, and now 138 years later, it’s still a great time to say ‘Thank you!’ to all our workers!  A special thank you for our Caregivers! They bring joy and ease to the lives of our wonderful clients each day, especially during these challenging times!

Celebrate!

Enjoy some fun activities for Labor Day! Today, we have something special for all of you music lovers out there. We are taking you on a journey to Detroit, Michigan, for none other than the world famous Detroit Jazz Festival! Detroit Jazz Festival is going virtual this year, free for all to enjoy from anywhere in the world! It is so easy to tune in and watch the live festivities! We recommend tuning into their Facebook @detroitjazzfestival for easy live streaming! Bebop and boogie-woogie as the music sweeps all your cares away! 

Connect!

Holidays are a wonderful time to bring people together. Check out our Tech Lounge series on Zoom video chat so that you can connect to the people you love the most! Or call up our Concierge Services, we would love to cook you a special meal, or set up a Zoom video chat for you to use whenever you like. Be safe with social distancing and be in the company of your loved ones - we say that you can have it both ways! 

Challenge yourself!

My grandfather loves words! He loves crossword puzzles, word searches, and any word puzzle he can get his hands on. Enjoy this free library of printable large print word searches! What a fun way to spend an afternoon! There’s even a puzzle especially for Labor Day! http://www.qets.com/large-print_puzzles/puzzles_word-search.htm

Create a colorful healthy snack!

This is a four ingredient simple, healthy, and delicious snack or breakfast! Remember to aim for the rainbow to get a variety of nutrients, and this red, white and blue parfait will cool you off, make you feel festive, and hit the spot! https://www.tosimplyinspire.com/red-white-and-blue-parfaits.html

Don’t forget to forward this email to your friends and family, we guarantee they will enjoy the Jazz Festival and Labor Day activities too! 

We hope you have a great holiday! If you enjoyed these activities, then please “Like” us on Facebook. We can’t wait to hear from you! Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones, so that they too can try some new fun activities this Labor Day!

For more great ideas to celebrate life from home visit our newsletter archives from this page.

All Rights Reserved by Cloverleaf Care

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Escape to Serenity - A virtual tour of the Portland Japanese Gardens!

You might still be thinking of your African safari trip from just a few weeks ago! (If you didn’t get a chance to enjoy the safari experience, then it is still not too late; just click here and travel to an exotic world of animals in the African wilderness!) Today, we are taking you on another tour, and this time it is of a different kind. We thought that you might enjoy exploring the jaw-dropping Portland Japanese Garden!

It is time to grab your sunhat, a refreshing drink, and settle into your recliner for a dose of adventure! There is no need to leave your house when you can explore the world with the click of a mouse! Let’s head over to the Portland Japanese Garden which has created a beautiful and easy to navigate virtual tour experience that will transport you to a serene and peaceful world.

Consider this a two-in-one adventure. You will be traveling to lush Oregon, and then the Portland Japanese Garden transports you to eight unique gardens, a Japanese Tea House, and the unmistakable tranquility of Japanese culture. Enjoy footage of over 12 acres of this stunning oasis. You will stroll through winding walkways and see and hear running streams and waterfalls. You will hear Garden Curators speak of Japanese culture and the importance of nature. 

In our turbulent world today, a peaceful escape is just what many of us might need. 

Portland Japanese Garden has set up several options for your escape. Click on this link, and you will find an art exhibit designed to bring us together during a challenging time. Scroll down on that very page, and you will see “Experience the Garden from Afar.” Here, you can visit seven of the gardens under “Virtual Tours & 360 Views of Our Garden spaces.” Click on any of the seven sections, and be immersed in the most beautiful 3D photos and videos! 

Use your mouse to click the arrows to “walk” around the gardens at your leisure. Experience the “Entry Garden”, and click on the arrows to wander the gardens, taking time to breathe in the freshness of nature! I could literally feel the cool rejuvenating air on my cheeks and in my lungs!

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so how about a video? Under “Experience the Garden from Afar” you will see a videos section! Click “View,” and enjoy these video tours which include a relaxing combination of music, imagery, and knowledge from Garden Curators! If you want to see a full list of videos, click here, or for a great introductory video, click here! These wonderful tour guides will teach you about plants, architecture, history and culture as they show you around the gardens. Did you know that Japanese traditional fort architecture is inherently earthquake proof? It is impossible to leave the Japanese Gardens and not feel a sense of serenity and a widening of one’s horizons. 

Treat yourself to this lovely escape, and if you enjoyed this tour then please “Like” us on Facebook. We can’t wait to hear from you! Don’t forget to share this virtual experience with your loved ones, so that they too can immerse themselves in the serene!

                            All Rights Reserved by Cloverleaf Care

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Friendship - the shortest distance between people

There seems to be a holiday for everything! Did you know that August 4th is National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day? If that is not surprising enough, did you know that August 8th is “National Sneak Some Zucchini onto your Neighbor’s Porch Day”? Apparently, a man in Pennsylvania declared this a national holiday because he did not know what to do with all of the extra zucchinis he was growing! So on August 8th, many wait until dark and leave the fresh ripe squash on their neighbor’s doorstep for them to eat and enjoy. Sign me up for this tradition! 

Another lovely holiday we can all enjoy is International Friendship Day! The United Nations recognized July 30th as International Friendship Day, but most people celebrate this special day on the first Sunday of August. We invite you to consider the theme of friendship all throughout the month of August. Covid 19 has tried to pull many people apart, but is it not more important now than ever to find ways to connect with, and cherish the wonderful people we call friends.?

Throughout this pandemic, we have been told to isolate ourselves to stay healthy. How do we find a balance between staying safe and avoiding the damaging effects of social isolation? Many senior citizens in the United States report feeling isolated during this challenging time, you are not alone.

Cesar recently celebrated his 85th birthday in June. He was not so sure how this birthday was going to be, since the tradition for the last 11 years has included his poker buddies coming over for a backyard barbeque. Cesar jokingly told his friends that he was going to skip his birthday this year. However, Cesar’s best friend came up with a great plan to help Cesar enjoy his birthday the best they knew how. Cesar and 4 of his friends made individual dinners at their houses, grabbed drinks, and got together on a video chat! Though miles apart, the long term friends smiled and laughed and enjoyed each other’s company from a safe distance. 

Maybe you are looking for another way to connect? Marina has always loved writing, and she finds great joy in making it a goal to write one letter a week. Sometimes she prefers a good old fashioned letter sent through the mail, but recently she has been embracing email and enjoying how quickly she can send and receive responses. Marina’s best friend for 22 year years lives in Minnesota, miles away from Marina’s California home. Marina writes to her best friend about her daily life, her thoughts and opinions, and she often feels like these letters and emails are a wonderful outlet. Have you been meaning to write  a letter or an email to a loved one, but something seems to have been getting in the way? Just to say “hello!”? Better yet, consider reaching out to someone you have not talked to in a while. International Friendship Day is a perfect reminder to reconnect and share a smile. 

Isolation and loneliness do not have to go hand in hand. It is important to recognize your feelings and remember you are not the only one feeling this way. Talk to others about how you are feeling, whether that is through a phone call, a video chat, a letter or email. Consider starting a healthy routine of reaching out to others, and enjoy the benefits of your new healthy habit! Studies show it takes at least 21 days to form a habit, though others say it takes much longer! Find a frequency and option that works for you!

Enjoy friendships, old and new, this August. It is a wonderful time to remember the richness our friendships bring to our lives. Technology can enrich our opportunities for connection, but a letter or phone call can be equally rewarding. It is all about taking a moment from our days to connect with someone and let them know we are grateful for their companionship. Have you checked out our Tech Lounge? We have several videos showing you how to download and use Zoom, a free and easy way to video chat with those you love! We make it easier than ever, follow along with us! See how to create a free Zoom account here!   Social media is another great way to stay in touch with others. Stay connected with us and say hello on our Facebook page. We are always happy to hear from you!

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Do you know the F.A.C.T.S?

When it comes to something as personal as finding compassionate In-Home Care for ourselves or our loved ones, we are faced with many questions. There is no question that is too big or too small when we are considering our own needs, or the needs of a parent, grandparent, or a special needs adult family member. We understand how challenging it can feel when you are faced with the decision of who to trust with the well-being of your loved ones. Cloverleaf Care makes it simple to get the F.A.C.T.S. to ensure that every question, concern, and need you and your family may have is completely addressed. Rest assured, with Cloverleaf Care you are going to rest easy knowing that we will care for your family as we would our own. 

Let us bring you peace of mind - from our family to yours. 

F. Our Flexible Services were designed with your individual needs in mind. We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and our services are as unique as you are. For example, did you know we provide concierge services? Our Thrive! Concierge Service can be used once a week, once a month, or as and when you need a little assistance! Of course, if you are in need of more, we have plenty of options for that as well whether it be hourly, 24/7, respite or short-term care You are in charge and we will find solutions that match what YOU need. 

A. Affordable packages are essential for ensuring that you receive the highest quality care at a price that fits. We believe that finances should never be a roadblock to quality support and care and we provide many options to make certain there is a perfect solution for you. Our Homecare Service Plans are flexible and designed keeping  a “Total Care Solution” approach to homecare that can be tailored to your budget. Did you know that we also provide short-term care options? Ask us about our “Home Transitions” care programs!

C. Continuous Support is one of the many ways we stand behind  you as a true partner in your or your loved one’s care. We offer 24 hour support regarding our services.  Our Elder Care Advisors can help you to understand your discharge instructions, and we help in coordination with DME, home-health and hospice care.. We also handle all aspects of long-term care insurance coordination, so that you have one less thing to worry about.

T. Total Reliability allows you to have complete peace of mind knowing that you are in good hands with Cloverleaf Care. We are bonded, insured and licensed and carry worker’s compensation insurance to protect our clients from any liability. Our caregivers are highly trained on all infectious disease  protective and preventive measures to ensure your health and safety. We think of everything, so that you only need to focus on the things that matter most  - Your health and happiness!  

S. Superior Quality is guaranteed through our rigorous hiring process to make certain that only the best home care aides make the cut! We are committed to compassionate, nurturing, and conscientious care for every single one of our clients. Our screening process was designed to ensure complete safety and satisfaction of our clients and their families. 

As you can see, our goal is not to be just another In-Home Care services company, but to set ourselves apart as your true partner in care. We take every measure to make the process of in-home care an outstanding experience. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can exceed your expectations, and help you live every day your own way!

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Zoom out of Gloom - Part 3

Welcome back to the Tech Lounge, a welcoming space for people of all ages to learn and enjoy the wonders of technology! We are going to set you up with the next installment of our “Zoom out of Gloom” series which will guide you in downloading Zoom on your iPhone or Android smartphone! Sometimes, it can be hard to venture into the new and unknown, and while phone calls and letters are always a great option, the ability to video chat with others is something that is truly special. 

It is time to grab a cup of tea, stretch, pat yourself on the back and settle into our next steps on getting Zoom up and running! This section is simply a way to make Zoom work on your cell phone or tablet! 

If you have a tablet, you can use these steps to download Zoom on your tablet as well! If you have an iPad you will want to use the instructions for the iPhone, and if you have a different tablet that runs Android go ahead and follow the Android  steps!

To download Zoom on your cell phone or tablet, go to your built in App Store and install the application. Then, open the newly installed app and sign in!

If you have an iPhone, your App Store is called “App Store”. Click here for our video with simple step-by-step instructions on how to install Zoom on your iPhone.

If you have an Android phone your App Store is called “Play Store”. Click here for our video with simple steps on how to install Zoom on your Android smartphone.

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Zoom out of Gloom - the Sequel

Get your seat belt on as we set up you up with simple steps to get your first video meeting underway! We will show you how easy it is to download Zoom to your computer and get you started on your first video call!

Technology can truly give us so many options, whether it is a video chat with your grandchildren, or an online pet store for all of your cat’s needs, and we are here to help you embrace it! In the last segment in our Tech Lounge series “Zoom out of Gloom”, we showed you how to sign up for your very own Zoom account! 

Click here to see our video if you still need to sign up for a zoom account. It’s free and simple to use. 

This week, we are going to get you up and running with Zoom! If you have been following this series, then I am sure that you are getting that tingling feeling right about now for this final act. Get your seat belt on as we set you up with the simple steps and get your first video meeting underway! We will show you a simple step-by-step example of how to download Zoom to your computer.

We look forward to hearing from you about how you are using Zoom! Send us a message or comment on Facebook! Remember my grandmother from our last “Zoom out of Gloom” article? She did not have any interest in picking up a tablet, but she wanted you all to know that she followed last week's steps on signing up for Zoom and she is so proud that she did! She wants you to know that if she can do it, then you can too!

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Thrive! Concierge Service

Cloverleaf Care’s Thrive! Concierge Service bridges the gap for those independent seniors who require just a little assistance to thrive in place! With no minimum requirements, you can use the service when you need it...

Even simple things can get just that bit harder as we age. The more sedentary and stressful of a lifestyle that we have lived, the more it takes a toll as the years advance. We miss the activities we used to once enjoy and the social interactions that added such color to our lives. But it does not have to be that way. 

We can still enjoy some gourmet meals, go for a walk in the park, enjoy a refreshing oceanside drive, visit the salon and enjoy some soothing self care, work in the garden, keep an active social calendar and continue to be engaged in our community, enjoy some companionship and talk about our memories while leafing through an album, or just talk about anything! 

All we sometimes need is just a little support from an understanding heart that can keep us active, safe, well  and socially engaged, while at the same time maintaining and even enhancing our independence.

Cloverleaf Care’s Thrive! Concierge Service is developed to deliver precisely to those needs and enable you to continue to live and love in the community where you have built your cherished memories. Our concierge service bridges the gap for those independent seniors who require just a little assistance to thrive in place! Our entire focus of this program is to support a longer and healthier lifestyle and enhance the quality of life of independent seniors wherever they call “home”.

If you are someone who is able to live independently but could use some occasional assistance with outside chores, errands, doctor’s appointments, dialysis visits, therapy appointments, maintaining a good nutrition program, staying active, keeping your social engagements or staying engaged with others and enjoying a high quality of life, then our concierge service is the right fit for you. 

There are no minimum requirements and you can use the service when you need it. It is the most flexible service brought to you by the same company who’s In-Home Care service has received the highest reputation in your area!

Would you like to continue to enjoy your independence and experience a higher quality of daily life with just a little help when you need it? Then call us today and ask us about our Thrive! Concierge Service.

The list of services includes the following:

Companionship

Play games, do hobbies and activities together

Doctor’s visits and medical, dental appointments

Visit church services, attend spiritual groups and events

Meal planning for wellness and good nutrition

Errands like going to the bank, grocery shopping etc.

Keep your daily schedule and living environment organized

Walk therapy - walk around the neighbourhood, to the park etc.

Talk therapy

Go for physical activities such as yoga, swimming, pilates and other exercise programs

Weekly event planning tailor made to your taste (socially distanced safe activities only)

Social interactions - planning a weekly activities calendar.

Visit local support groups 

We are continuously adding more services to our Thrive! Concierge Service program!

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A “woof-woof” and a “walkie-walkie”

As you may recall from our “Mint Tea and Exercise” blog, here at Cloverleaf Care we are big fans of making “fun” and “exercise” one and the same. Yes, you read that right! Just like you, we don’t want to get caught up in an exercise routine that is two parts boring and one part exhausting. We invite you to explore activities until you find something you love doing!  But what happens when your favorite activity partner needs more attention than you anticipated? Perhaps that activity partner just so happens to have four legs and a tail? Pets can be a wonderful part of our lives and our families, and we want to help connect you with ways to care for your pets! This will ensure many active days to come for you both!

Take Bob and Sally for example. They walk together with their dog, Sawyer, every morning and every evening. These days they have been walking wearing masks. Their walking route includes 3 homes that have beautiful roses in the front garden. This is their own way of indulging their love of roses, since they no longer have their own rose garden - it was getting to be too much for their age. 

Sawyer, their dog, is a scruffy grey and brown terrier mix whose personality is far bigger than his 15lb body. Bob and Sally are constantly getting after Sawyer for nudging his way into the pantry, or pulling a sock out of the hamper. Sawyer is actually eleven years old himself, but he has always had the heart of a puppy. Bob and Sally find Sawyer a wonderful exercise companion, even when the weather is a bit cloudy, or Bob and Sally would really rather just sleep in. Sawyer shows up by the door wagging his tail and watching with expectant eyes. They often sigh and smile to themselves as they put on Sawyer’s harness and leash. Sawyer also loves playing with his rope toys and toy balls and can convince Bob and Sally that there is nowhere better than their back patio, throwing the ball and watching Sawyer never tire of bringing it back to them. 

As wonderful as it is to have a daily activity companion and infinite companionship giver, Sawyer is at times more of a handful than Bob and Sally can manage on their own. Thanks to the help of Cloverleaf Care’s concierge services, online pet stores, and their granddaughter Veronica, Bob and Sally are able to manage and provide for all of Sawyer’s needs. Since Bob and Sally do not drive, they use Cloverleaf Care’s concierge services for the monthly pick up for Sawyer’s arthritis medication, and ensuring that Sawyer has a ride to all of his veterinary and grooming appointments.

Covid has created so many complications in all of our lives, and for Bob and Sally, their access to pet supplies suddenly became a challenge. For such a small dog, Sawyer sure eats a lot of food and treats (And he won’t settle for just any old biscuit, it must be the peanut butter Buddy Biscuit!). They also love enriching Sawyer’s curious and sometimes mischievous little mind with puzzle toys. Bob and Sally have been doing a lot more online shopping these days and  www.chewy.com is a favorite. This website is a great resource for any pet, dogs, cats, and more! Bob and Sally even found that they could order medications from this site, and Chewy will work with their veterinarian to approve the prescription! Depending on the medication, whether it’s heartworm preventative or antibiotics, Bob and Sally also enjoy doing some price comparisons on https://www.1800petmeds.com/. They’ve actually found that medications can be far cheaper online than through their veterinary office! All of their troubles are worth it to receive the unwavering love, licks, and tail wags of their little scruffy dog. 

Last weekend as Bob, Sally and Sawyer were taking their evening walk, Sally couldn’t help but smile to herself, grateful for their little activity partner and lifelong friend. Enjoying a pet is just one of the many activities that can keep us healthy and active. We are huge fans of celebrating yourself and the accomplishments you make every single day. Did you try some new stretches? That’s fantastic! Did you plant some rosemary in your window? Wonderful! Any step towards activity and wellness is worth celebrating. It’s all about finding something that works for you, something (or in Sawyer’s case, someONE!) that makes you smile!

Do you have a favorite exercise? Share with us via email or on facebook - perhaps someone out there will be inspired and motivated and make your favorite exercise their own!