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exercises, taking clients on walks, and
involving them in activities that require
movement. Another emphasis of JoyCARE,
Inc. is to help improve mental alertness
through playing games that stimulate
thought processes and using activities to
help increase attention, sequencing,
problem solving, and memory. We also
assist our clients with organization in their
current living environment by helping
de-clutter, removing fall hazards, organizing
closets, and managing appointments.
Although there are many important areas
of focus that we address, the one area that
has had the greatest impact on our clients
is that of companionship. There is no app,
no computer program, no substitute for
genuine one on one, face-to-face interaction
between people. It has been amazing to
see the difference in the countenance and
mood of our clients prior to a JoyCARE, Inc.
visit as compared to their demeanor
following a visit.
Many times when we arrive, a person
is alone, somewhat depressed, and even
a bit anxious. After just a few minutes of
meaningful face-to-face conversation, an
encouraging pat on the back, a simple
hug or just holding someone’s hand and
listening to them talk, the transformation
we see is something truly special and
almost hard to define. This uninterrupted,
undivided, uniquely personal attention
given to another person is truly the best
medicine for depression, feelings of
isolation, and hopelessness. Not only does
it quickly improve the mood of our clients,
but also meaningful conversation is often
recommended by many physicians to aid
in decreasing the rate of cognitive decline.
Why is this simple act of companionship
so special and beneficial? Well, in our
world of fast-paced, computer-dominated,
and productivity-driven cultures we have
found that sometimes personal attention
and consideration of what the client needs
are not always considered. An individualized
and client-centered approach is the
hallmark of JoyCARE, Inc.
During an initial consultation, goals for
the client are established. Next, a program
of activities and interventions are developed
to help the clients meet their goals,
while having fun in the process. From
teaching a senior adult how to use an iPad,
to reminiscing about the past, to helping
someone maintain his or her mobility to
walk around their own home, JoyCARE,
Inc. individualizes a program based on the
needs of our clients.
Although we are the ones hired to help
our clients, without fail, our clients are also
helping us and teaching us valuable life
lessons and various skills. A “young”
ninety-year-old client is teaching some of
the JoyCARE, Inc. team to do embroidery.
The opportunity to teach someone a new
skill has given her purpose and increased
self- esteem and, in return, we have some
beautiful pillowcases!
To hear laughter and see a smile lets us
know we are doing our job. As stated in
Proverbs 17:22, “A joyful heart is good
medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the
bones.” This verse is the theme for
JoyCARE, Inc. n
“A joyful heart is
good medicine,
but a crushed
spirit dries up
the bones.”
Proverbs 17:22
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If you feel like you or someone you know may
benefit from the services of JoyCARE, Inc.,
please call Jennifer Joy Bird at 601-573-6344
for a free initial consultation.
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