The process of finding appropriate care for aging parents is often overwhelming, especially when faced during a crisis. Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today, recently spoke with Vicki Harris-Williams, founder of 'A Safe Haven for Seniors,' to discuss her mission of assisting families through this difficult journey. Here are the key takeaways from their conversation.
Vicki began by sharing her frustration working as a sales marketing director in corporate elder care, where many families couldn't meet the financial or space requirements. This propelled her to found her own company. Initially helping people on her own, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, she realized there was a significant need for compassionate guidance in elder care. With her husband's encouragement, she officially launched A Safe Haven for Seniors.
Many people in their forties and fifties are unprepared for the complexities of elder care. Vicki emphasized that it's critical to find someone trustworthy and knowledgeable to navigate these decisions. Drawing from her personal experience with her mother's dementia, Vicki noted that families are often in crisis mode when seeking assisted living or home care. The emotional and logistical challenges are immense, making it essential to have a professional who understands the nuances of elder care.
Janet and Vicki discussed the importance of visiting care facilities and not judging them solely by appearances or advertisements. Vicki advised checking Department of Social Services violations for potential red flags and emphasized that personal visits can provide invaluable insights.
A Safe Haven for Seniors stands out due to its local expertise. Unlike large corporate elder care companies, Vicki's team has personal relationships with many facilities' staff and has firsthand knowledge of their operations. This allows them to provide personalized recommendations and negotiate better rates for clients.
The conversation touched on the significant emotional and physical toll on both the aging individual and their family. Vicki elaborated on the benefits of social interaction in assisted living facilities compared to the isolation often experienced at home. She debunked the myth that staying at home is always the best option, noting the high costs of home modifications and in-home care.
Janet and Vicki also discussed the importance of proactive planning. Waiting for a crisis often leads to rushed decisions and less ideal outcomes. Early conversations about finances, healthcare preferences, and living arrangements are crucial. Vicki provides consultations to help families make informed decisions before reaching a crisis point. Her advice includes considering long-term care insurance and looking into financial resources such as veterans' benefits and life insurance options.
Vicki's approach is highly personal and empathetic, often mediating between family members to keep the focus on the elder's well-being. She also highlighted the importance of preparing for dementia-specific care, which requires specialized facilities and approaches.
A Safe Haven for Seniors offers a wealth of resources and support. Their website provides essential information, and Vicki's podcast, Senior Knowledge, offers further insights. They operate throughout Virginia, West Virginia, and even offer assistance across the U.S., leveraging Vicki's extensive professional network.
Concluding their conversation, Janet and Vicki emphasized the necessity of educating oneself and asking questions, as navigating elder care is not an easy path. Vicki's company is there to hold families' hands through the journey, ensuring they make informed and compassionate choices for their loved ones.
For more information, contact A Safe Haven for Seniors through their website at https://www.asafehavenforseniors.com/ or by calling (540) 405-3799. Their Facebook page also provides updates and resources for families seeking elder care solutions.
