Madison318web

Joy
Putting the
IN Caring
FOR
SENIORS
Jennifer Joy Bird
JoyCARE Inc.
In today’s world with so many ideas on
what it takes to live a longer and healthier
life, could the act of a simple face-to-face
conversation and companionship with
another person possibly extend your years?
According to recent studies, socializing
can have a positive biological impact, as
well as a positive psychological impact
on a person’s health.
When someone engages in meaningful
and uplifting conversation, studies have
shown a decrease in blood pressure,
cholesterol levels, and heart rate. Another
benefit is that companionship can lower
feelings of isolation related depression.
Yet another important benefit to strong
relationships with others was documented
in a recent Harvard School of Public Health
study. It found that strong social connections
can help preserve brain health throughout the
aging process, and social isolation may be
an important risk factor for cognitive decline
and impairment in the geriatric population.
Therefore, what we gather from medical
studies is that companionship is beneficial
to the physical, emotional, and cognitive
health of the elderly. However, it is one
thing to read about it in a study but quite a
different thing to experience it, personally.
At this point, I want to share some of
my own personal experiences as an
occupational therapist and provider of care
through JoyCARE, Inc.
First, let me start by sharing that
JoyCARE, Inc. provides lifestyle enhancement
services for senior adults. We strive to maintain
the emotional and physical well-being of our
clients and improve the quality of life of
those we serve. JoyCARE, Inc. is unique
because we offer the benefits of skilled
professionals who provide the attention
and services that maximize the independence
and safety of our clients.
JoyCARE, Inc. helps clients with life skills
such as grooming, dressing, and feeding
tasks. We also help promote an active
lifestyle through encouraging gentle
52 • March/April 2018