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.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.

What do Seniors Want?

By Donna Nichols • May 7, 2025
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.
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