When is the Time Right?

Donna Nichols • December 21, 2022

How do you know when it's time to move your loved one to assisted living?

A group of elderly people are posing for a picture.

So, twenty-five or thirty years ago, you promised mom or dad you would NEVER put them in a “home”. Well, have you checked out the “homes” lately? They aren’t called “homes” anymore in they way they were and most of the stigma has been removed from the label. The assisted living communities of today are more like resort-style living. They are so well-equipped that you never have to leave.


Most of them have chapels, beauty salons, gyms, swimming pools, a bar, dining room, a common room, a library and so much more. They also include three (3) square meals a day, utilities, housekeeping, laundry, nursing care (if needed), activities, outings and transportation (if you don’t drive). Another upside to assisted living is there is no house or yard maintenance, if a light bulb goes out in your apartment, you call maintenance, how awesome is that? You also don’t have to pay for homeowner’s insurance or have the worry about replacing appliances. If I was old enough, and the time is coming soon, I would consider living in an assisted living community (in the independent section) just for the convenience of it all.


Now, how do you know when it’s time to move mom or dad to an assisted living? First and foremost, when safety is an issue is the biggest concern! Take the quiz below and if you answer yes to a few of the questions, you may want to give us a call to schedule your free consultation.


What happens when I call? When you call our office at 386-847-2322, I will take some basic information from you about your loved one. I will then give that information to one of our highly trained advisors who will contact you to go into more detail about your loved one’s medical, financial and social needs. Your advisor will then recommend what they feel is the best solution for your unique situation; it may not be assisted living; it may be home health or day care. Your advisor will then personally escort you on tours of the assisted living communities, if that is the recommendation agreed upon.


We will stay with you from start to finish! Holding your hand every step of the way, there is a lot to consider, and you have so much on your plate as it is, let US help you!!



1.     Is your loved one at risk of falling or having difficulty getting around?

2.     Is personal care such as, unkempt clothes, hygiene, change in appearance, attending to hair, bathing and dressing becoming more difficult?

3.     Is taking medications becoming more confusing with the right doses and at the right times?

4.     Is your loved one losing weight or finding it difficult to cook or grocery shop?

5.     Are the daily household chores and yard being neglected or becoming unsafe?

6.     Are we noticing a diminishment in driving skills – dents/scratches – driving too slowly? OR if not driving, are they having difficulty arranging transportation?

7.     Has there been an increased amount of memory loss, forgetfulness, or confusion?

8.     Is unopened mail piling up, past due bills, or mishandled finances?

9.     Has your loved one become reluctant to leave the house or socialize?

10. Are you noticing changes in personality, mood, or are they experiencing more irritability?


Please call us right away if you answered yes to any of the above questions so we can evaluate your loved one’s unique situation. People thrive today once they move into assisted living communities, so let’s start the new year off right by keeping mom, dad, or both, safe, healthy and happy.

An older woman and a younger woman are posing for a picture together.

Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.

Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

By Donna Nichols • March 9, 2026
If you’ve ever walked into a room full of older adults and noticed the sweaters, shawls, and space heaters humming in the corner, you’re not imagining it — many seniors really do feel colder than everyone else. And it’s not just a quirk. There are real, physical reasons behind it, and understanding them can make daily life a lot more comfortable. 1. Our Internal Thermostat Changes Over Time As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. The internal “thermostat” in the brain doesn’t respond as quickly to cold, so seniors may feel chilly even when the room is warm enough for others. 2. Less Muscle = Less Heat Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, and muscle is what helps generate body heat. With less of it, the body simply produces less warmth. Even active seniors may notice they get cold more easily than they used to. 3. Thinner Skin and Reduced Circulation Skin becomes thinner over time, offering less insulation. On top of that, circulation often slows, meaning warm blood takes longer to reach hands, feet, and other extremities. This is why fingers and toes are often the first to feel icy. 4. Medications Can Play a Role Many common medications — including those for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or depression — can affect how warm or cold someone feels. It’s not always the medication itself, but how it interacts with the body’s temperature signals. 5. Underlying Health Conditions Conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can all contribute to feeling cold. Sometimes, persistent chilliness is the body’s way of asking for a check-in with a healthcare provider. 6. Hydration and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think Dehydration and low-calorie intake can both make the body feel colder. Seniors who don’t drink enough water or who eat lightly may notice they’re chilly more often. Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Comfortable • Layer up with breathable fabrics • Keep moving — even gentle stretching boosts circulation • Warm beverages throughout the day • Use blankets or heated throws safely • Check room drafts and adjust thermostat settings • Talk with a doctor if coldness is new or worsening A Warm Note to Close Feeling cold isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a natural part of aging. With a few small adjustments and a little awareness, seniors can stay cozy, comfortable, and confident all year long.