Kankakee & Frankfort Archives | Home Helpers® Home Care

Home Helpers Kankakee & Frankfort Receives 5 Best of Home Care Awards in 2026

Post author By Ralph Johnson
Post date February 23, 2026

I am excited to announce that Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort has received multiple awards from Activated Insights, a research firm and experience management company that monitors the level of in-home care received by our clients, the level of job satisfaction of the caregivers we employ, and the leadership we consistently demonstrate.

Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort has received five Best of Home Care awards from Activated Insights in 2026: Top 100 Leader in Experience, Best of Home Care Leader in Experience, Best of Home Care Leader in Training, Best of Home Care Provider of Choice, and Best of Home Care Employer of Choice.

Best of Home Care – Top 100 Leader in Experience

The Top 100 Leader in Experience award is the highest honor Activated Insights bestows, because it recognizes the top 100 agencies in North America with the highest overall satisfaction (OSAT) scores. This annual award is based on our clients’ and care professionals’ experience surveys.

Best of Home Care Leader in Experience

This is another prestigious award from Activated Insights. The Best in Home Care Leader in Experience is based on client and caregiver feedback collected through telephone interviews.

Recipients of this award represent the top 15% of all providers participating in the Activated Insights Experience Management program. Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort provides quality care in nearly every satisfaction category measured: Leader in Experience, Best of Home Care Provider of Choice, and Best of Home Care Employer of Choice Awards.

Best of Home Care Provider of Choice

The Best of Home Care Provider of Choice is an award given to home care providers who consistently exceed industry standards for quality in-home care. Recipients earning this award deliver the highest level of care, professionalism, and expertise in the industry based on clients’ feedback.

Best of Home Care Employer of Choice

This award is very special because it means our compassionate caregivers are happy, engaged and motivated to provide exceptional service to our clients! When you choose us for in-home care services for your loved one, you can rest assured knowing we consistently exceed industry standards for employee satisfaction.

Best of Home Care Leader in Training

This award recognizes home care agencies that provide specialized care for clients and career growth for care professionals through a commitment to continuous learning. This annual award is based on training completion rates.

Have 10+ learners complete at least 1 training course for the year.
Average 8+ Activated Insights Course completions per care professional for the year.
Utilize Activated Insights Training for at least 3 months.

As the owner of Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort, I couldn’t be prouder of these honors and of our care team, without whom we would not have achieved such success!

Please remember Home Helpers when you or a senior loved one could benefit from in-home care services such as companion care, meal planning and preparation, homemaker services, specialized care services, recuperative care, support for stroke recovery, respite care, wellness calls, 24-hour care, and more. Our highly trained and skilled caregivers are available 24/7/365 to make life easier.

I welcome the opportunity to schedule a FREE Consultation to assess specific needs and create a personalized care plan for you or a senior loved one to live independently at home for as long as possible.

Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort is honored to have been ranked among the Activated Insights 2026 Top 100 Leaders in Experience for home care providersand to have received the Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice, the Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice, the Best of Home Care® Leader in Experience, and the Best of Home Care® Leader in Training Awards 2026, in addition to the Daily Journal’s Readers’ Choice Award 2025.

Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort proudly serves male and female seniors in Beecher, Bourbonnais, Bradley, Dwight, Frankfort, Kankakee, Manteno, Mokena, New Lenox, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Tinley Park, Watseka, Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Contact our office today to learn more about the many services offered through Home Helpers® – We are Making Life Easier℠ for you and yours. 815.427.4238

Source:

Activated Insights

Examining Ways to Maintain Heart Health and Prevent Heart Disease in Illinois

Post author By Home Helpers® Home Care
Post date January 30, 2026

Examining Ways to Maintain Heart Health and Prevent Heart Disease in Illinois

One of my extended family members in the Chicago area passed away suddenly last year due to a heart attack. He was obese, had high blood pressure, and didn’t always eat a heart-healthy diet. Since his passing, I’ve had time to process the loss and learn more about heart disease.

February is American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart health. Considering the loss of my uncle, I want to examine ways to maintain heart health and prevent heart disease in Illinois.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is also known as cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, or coronary artery disease. These terms refer to a condition called atherosclerosis, which is characterized by the buildup of plaque in the heart’s arteries. This typically presents in the form of a heart attack, stroke, arrhythmia, or heart valve problems.

“When individuals think about heart disease, they often think about blockages in the arteries. But the reality is that it’s problems with muscle function, valve function, the lining of the heart, and the electrical system. It’s much broader than blockages, although that tends to be the most common presentation of heart disease,” says Northwestern Medicine Cardiologist Micah J. Eimer, MD.

Fortunately, many people have listened to healthcare professionals and made strides in preventing and treating heart disease, resulting in better overall heart health.

According to Dr. Eimer, there has been a decline in the number of deaths in Illinois and across the country due to heart disease or heart attack over the last several decades.

10 Facts About the Heart and Heart Disease

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women in Illinois.
Approximately 25,600-26,300 people die from heart disease in Illinois annually.
Heart disease claims a life in the United States every 37 seconds.
Every year, approximately 805,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack.
About 1 in 5 heart attacks is silent – the person is not aware of the damage that has been done.
Symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath.
Even if you have no symptoms, you may still be at risk for heart disease.
Half of men who die suddenly of coronary heart disease did not have previous symptoms.
High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking are key risk factors.
Nearly 7 in 10 people over age 65 who have diabetes will die of some type of heart disease.

Risk Factors

Overweight and obesity
Unhealthy diet
Physical inactivity
Excessive alcohol use
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Diabetes
Smoking

Heart Disease Prevention

There are ways to reduce these and other risks, like adopting a healthy diet and incorporating physical activity into your routine. The key is to find something you enjoy doing, like walking with friends.

Dr. Eimer suggests, ”People should be finding out if they have non-obstructive coronary disease. These are minor blockages that aren’t causing symptoms or detected by a stress test, but can lead to a heart attack in the future. Your primary care provider or cardiologist may use a blood test or recommend a coronary calcium scan to better determine your risk.”

Heart Health Recommendations

Life’s Essential 8: The American Heart Association advocates for focusing on diet, physical activity, nicotine avoidance, sleep, weight management, and controlling blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Small Lifestyle Changes: Experts suggest setting small, achievable goals, such as taking the stairs twice daily or reducing processed foods.
Nutritious Diet: Incorporate healthy fats (olive oil, nuts) and lean proteins (salmon, tofu) while avoiding excessive red meat and processed foods.

For personalized advice, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional in the Kankakee area to develop a tailored heart health plan.

If you or a senior loved one has heart disease, high blood pressure, or is recovering from a heart attack or cardiovascular surgery, Home Helpers provides non-medical home care and support to help make life easier. Our team of compassionate caregivers is highly trained and skilled to help with personal care, light housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal planning and preparation, 24-hour monitoring, 24-hour in-home care, and a variety of specialized care services, including stroke support and recovery, post-operative care, and recuperative care.

I am happy to offer a FREE Assessment at your convenience to discuss specific needs and create a customized care plan.

Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort is honored to have been ranked among the Activated Insights 2025 Top 100 Leaders in Experience for home care providersand to have received the Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice, the Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice, and the Best of Home Care® Leader in Experience Awards 2025, in addition to the Daily Journal’s Readers’ Choice Award 2025.

Source:

Northwestern Medicine

Google AI Overview

Home Helpers is Making Life Easier® for Seniors in Kankakee and Frankfort Areas

Post author By Ralph Johnson
Post date December 24, 2025

“You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” – George Burns

George Burns was one of the funniest comedians to ever grace a stage or screen, and as he grew older, he continued performing and smoking his cigars without skipping a beat. He grew older but didn’t “get old”.

A few years before his death at age 100, his son, Ronald, a nurse, and his housekeeper were his caregivers, and I suspect he kept his sense of humor even as he declined.

Being the owner of Home Helpers DuPage and Will and the new owner of Home Helpers Kankakee & Frankfort, I have had conversations with many seniors who wanted to stay socially active, while others lived more sedentary lifestyles due to physical or mental health conditions.

Regardless of the individual circumstances, the one common goal all of them collectively shared was their desire to remain independent in their homes for as long as possible. It is where many memories have been made and where they feel most comfortable and safe. It makes sense.

Helping seniors maintain their independence and not simply “get old” is what fuels our efforts and our passion at Home Helpers. Fortunately, we’ve been successful in Making Life Easier® for seniors in the Kankakee and Frankfort areas.

Our in-home care services are personalized to meet the unique needs and requirements of our clients and their families.

The non-medical, in-home care services Home Helpers provides include, but are not limited to:

Seniors value their independence more than just about anything, and I know seniors who are adamant about never going to assisted living or a skilled nursing facility under any circumstances because they feel like their lives will essentially be over if that happens. Unfortunately, sometimes, it is unavoidable.

Our care team assists seniors where they are, be it their home, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities. The compassionate caregivers at Home Helpers always strive to do whatever it takes to make life easier for seniors so they will be happy, healthy, and safe in their homes – or wherever they reside – for as long as possible.

Our professional caregivers are skillfully trained to know what to do and how to properly care for and assist seniors in a variety of circumstances. From undergoing certification in specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care to running errands and keeping seniors active and engaged, the caregivers I employ are thoroughly background-checked, licensed, bonded, and insured, and they each are highly qualified to deliver exceptional in-home care services 24/7/365.

I welcome the opportunity to schedule a FREE Consultation at your convenience to discuss the many ways a perfectly-matched caregiver can assist. This comprehensive assessment of needs will allow me to create a customized care plan to best support your senior independence or that of a loved one.

Home Helpers® Kankakee & Frankfort is honored to have been ranked among the Activated Insights 2025 Top 100 Leaders in Experience for home care providers and to have received the Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice, the Best of Home Care® Employer of Choice, and the Best of Home Care® Leader in Experience Awards 2025, in addition to the Daily Journal’s Readers’ Choice Award 2025.

25 Holiday Gift Ideas for Special Seniors in Your Life

Post author By Home Helpers® Home Care
Post date November 26, 2025

My wife and I recently welcomed our newest family member – our baby girl. With the holiday season around the corner, she’s the best gift we could receive!

It’s hard to believe we are in the midst of the Thanksgiving season and only weeks away from Christmas, Hanukkah, and other spiritual celebrations. As our family adjusts to our new family member, I will likely be shopping online more this year. Amazon, take me away!

As a parent, I want to shower our children with gifts, even though they’re too young to understand or enjoy many of them. So, my goal is to research and find practical gift ideas that will enhance their development.

As for everyone else on my holiday gift list, I have a few ideas. Unfortunately, I often struggle to find the right presents for my senior loved ones. After all, they seemingly have everything.

Fortunately, I found a complete guide listing holiday gift ideas for the special seniors in your life that will help us all this gift-giving season.

“With the help of our Good Housekeeping Institute experts, readers, and reviewers, we put together a list of the best gifts for seniors that’ll not only make them feel special this holiday season but also hit on their hobbies and interests, too,” explains Cailey Lindberg and Kate Franke at Good Housekeeping.

1. Skylight Digital Picture Frame

This digital picture frame makes for a lovely sentimental gift, even if they’re not the most tech-savvy. Preload the device with pictures, without unboxing, by activating ‘Gift Mode.’ That way, the frame will be ready to go when they open. It can display photos in both portrait and landscape mode.

2. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

Upgrade their old pillow with one recommended by our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. This pick from Tempur-Pedic received high marks from our pros for its alignment support, shape maintenance, and versatility amongst sleepers of differing heights. One GH tester even shared, “I noticed an immediate improvement in my neck alignment when I started sleeping on this pillow.”

3. Nostalgic Candy Mix Package

Throw it back a few decades by gifting them a care package of sweets, filled with candy they likely haven’t tasted in years. The box is outfitted with 30 different classic candies, ranging from Boston Baked Beans to Necco Wafers.

4. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

If they struggle to read the small text in physical books, gift them a Kindle e-reader, so they can enlarge the font and still enjoy novels from their favorite author. They can purchase books directly on the Kindle from Amazon’s collection of over 15 million titles. Other adjustable features include brightness, font style, and more.

5. Warmies Microwavable Slippers

If you want to give them something cozy, look no further than these faux fur slippers that come in a one-size-fits-most measurement. They’re microwaveable and packed with dried lavender buds for calming aromatherapy.

6. Daily Pill Organizer

A pill organizer may not be the most glamorous gift, but it sure is a useful one. This compact option is great for slipping into a purse and toting around throughout the day. Need a capsule at lunch? Grab it out of this container, organized into eight different sections.

7. My Life Story – So Far Journal

If they love sharing stories of their youth, gift them this prompted journal, so they can put their favorite memories to paper for future generations to read and enjoy. The book features adhesive corners, allowing writers to add photos, tickets, and other memorabilia to the journal.

8. ASUTRA Silk Eye Pillow

Up their nighttime routine with this cooling, weighted eye mask that’s filled with lavender buds and flax seeds for a relaxing, aromatic night’s sleep. Reviewers rave about the mask’s light-blocking capabilities and customization, as wearers can remove the cooling gel mask or aromatic muslin bag for a lighter feel.

9. Wooden Birthday Calendar

Here’s a sweet way to help them keep track of family birthdays. The wooden sign comes with 100 blank tokens for them to write on and hook on the correct month. One Amazon shopper shared: “I got the Wooden Calendar for my aging mother, and she loves it! She’s been having trouble keeping track of everyone’s birthdays, anniversaries, and special dates, so this was the perfect solution.”

10. CLEVERFY Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

Not everyone is a fan of baths, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out on the aromatherapy of a bath bomb. These shower steamers offer a similar experience. They can pop one of the six scented tablets onto the floor of their shower to release its aromatic properties for a relaxing, rejuvenating, or energizing shower.

11. Brouk & Co Eyewear & Jewelry Case

If she spends much of her retirement days travelling for friends, family, or fun, she’s sure to appreciate this foldable five-piece case, which is suited to fit two eyeglasses, earrings, bracelets/necklaces, and rings. The compact carrier even topped Oprah’s Favorite Things List last year!

12. The New York Times’ Custom Birthday Book

They likely grew up reading The New York Times, so a custom birthday book featuring its famous front pages throughout history—on their special day—might be just the perfect gift. It contains between 52 and 110 pages, depending on the selected date.

13. Becko US Puzzle Mat Roll Up

Puzzles can be a relaxing, brain-engaging activity, but if they’re not the type to finish in one sitting, the puzzle can become a nuisance. Instead of occupying valuable table space for days on end, they can roll up their half-finished puzzle in this felt mat storage bag to move until they are ready to solve again.

14. Long Shoehorn

While this gift might seem a little boring, it’s actually an extremely thoughtful idea for seniors. The long shoe horn will keep them from having to bend forward, protecting their achy back and knees.

15. Funny Retirement Hat

For the grandpa with a sense of humor, a funny ball cap is a cheeky gift idea. He can stick to wearing it around family or venture out into the world for laughs along the way.

16. Auto Cane

This aluminum cane, available in blue, red, or purple, will come in handy for senior drivers. The grab bar fits perfectly into the hook of the car door, providing support as they enter and exit. “Works really well, especially when exiting the car. My mom’s physical therapist recommended we try it and it worked so well that I bought two,” one Amazon reviewer writes.

17. Glass Hummingbird Feeder

Nana will love looking out her window at a beautiful glass hummingbird feeder, complete with a metal base and gasket to prevent nectar from leaking. Amazon reviewers are calling it “giftable” and a “good value” for the money, as it’s lead-free and comes with a hanging mount.

18. Candle Warmer Lamp

With this elegant candle warmer lamp, she won’t have to worry about flames. She can safely enjoy all of her favorite candles, whether she’s partial to florals, gourmand scents, or tropical picks. Plus, she can easily adjust the brightness level or put it on a timer.

19. Hand Exercise Balls for Arthritis

A thoughtful gift that will soothe achy hands, these silicone exercise balls come in extra soft, soft, medium, and hard to help strengthen their grip. The kit also comes with a booklet featuring 16 different exercises.

20. Microwavable Heating Pad

For the dedicated cat parent who also suffers from sore muscles, this microwaveable heating pad will be a hit. It’s filled with flaxseed and lavender to put them at ease. One reviewer writes: “I absolutely love this heating pad. I bought it to use after surgery. It definitely did the job well!!! Also love that it’s a little bit weighted.”

21. Solar Outdoor Garden Statue

If their garden is their pride and joy, a solar statue will make a great addition. It’ll charge up in the sun during the day to create beautiful mood lighting at night (it should remain lit for at least 8 hours once it’s fully charged).

22. Women’s Fleece Poncho

Made for lounging or staying cozy during neighborhood walks, Amazon reviewers are calling this soft fleece “warm and snuggly.” It features two spacious front pockets, so she can keep her essentials within reach.

23. Magnifying Glass

If they’re not seeing as well as they used to, this magnifying glass will make for a great practical gift. It magnifies up to 30x to help them read pesky, small fonts and even includes built-in lights to read in the dark.

24. Custom Recipe Cutting Board

Turn one of Nana’s delicious recipes into a family heirloom with this custom cutting board. It’s made of bamboo and can be engraved in their handwriting for an extra special touch.

25. HAUS AND HUES Custom Pet Portrait

Send in a picture of their pet pooch or fur ball and receive a custom portrait in return. This highly-rated Amazon gift is ideal for pet parents or grandparents. You can even select the background color and frame when ordering.

I encourage you to shop for these and similar gifts at other retailers online or in-store to compare pricing.

The compassionate caregivers at Home Helpers can assist you or a senior loved one if you need help shopping online, and they are great companions for shopping in-store at our local retailers.

I welcome the opportunity to meet seniors, veterans, and their families for a FREE Assessment so we can discuss the in-home care services we provide and explore ways we can make life easier for you and yours.

Source:

Good Housekeeping

Self-Exams and Mammograms are the First Steps for Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Post author By Ralph Johnson
Post date October 24, 2025

During October, we are inundated with prompts to wear pink for breast cancer awareness and participate in or donate to worthy fundraisers that support breast cancer research. All that is good; however, the most important thing to remember during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beyond is that self-exams and mammograms are the first steps for early detection of breast cancer.

Symptoms

Familiarize yourself with the symptoms that something is wrong. Aging men and women may not experience any symptoms associated with breast cancer because it starts with a single cancer cell that mutates and grows, which is why screening for breast cancer cells is so critical. There are several symptoms you can watch for, though, and if you notice any of these, you should see your doctor immediately!

Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no lump is present)
Skin dimpling (also known as orange peel skin)
Breast or nipple pain
Nipple retraction (turning inward)
Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking, or thickened
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone (sometimes this can be indicative of breast cancer spreading even before the original tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt)

“Remember that knowing what to look for does not take the place of having regular screening for breast cancer. Screening mammography can often help find breast cancer early, before any symptoms appear. Finding breast cancer early gives you a better chance of successful treatment,” says the American Cancer Society.¹

Self-Exams

Breastcancer.org says, “Regularly checking your breasts may help you find breast cancer early, when it’s more likely to be treated successfully.”

The following are steps for a traditional breast self-exam:

Examine your breast in a mirror with your hands on your hips. Look at their usual size, shape, and color, and check that they are evenly shaped with visible distortion or swelling. If you notice any of the above symptoms listed above, consult your doctor immediately.
Raise your arms and examine your breasts. Look for any changes as noted above.
Look for signs of breast fluid.
Feel for breast lumps while lying down. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few finger pads of your hand, keeping the fingers flat and together. Press down with your fingers and move them in a circular motion that’s about the size of a quarter (or an inch around). Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side — from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage. To examine the whole breast, begin at the nipple, moving in larger and larger circles until you reach the outer edge of the breast. Be sure to feel all the tissue from the front to the back of your breasts. When you’ve reached the deep tissue, you should be able to feel down to your ribcage.
Feel your breasts for lumps while standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in Step 4

Mammogram Screenings

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation¹ (BCRF) published the new United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for breast cancer screening in May 2023. They specifically noted that the age at which women should begin screening has been lowered from 50 to 40 years of age. The new guidelines are:

Start breast cancer screening at age 40
Get screening mammograms every other year from ages 40-74
Higher risk cases may require annual mammograms

“The major benefit of screening is that it helps detect breast cancer sooner. When breast cancer is caught early, it is nearly 100 percent curable. Women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer can also be cured with fewer and/or less intense treatments and surgeries. Mammograms and breast cancer screening have saved millions of lives,” explains the BCRF.

I don’t believe that thinking pink should stop when November begins. After all, women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day of every month of every year. In 2024, the American Cancer Society’s² estimates for breast cancer in the United States were:

About 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women
About 56,500 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or early stage
About 42,250 women and 530 men will die from breast cancer

“Breast cancer mainly occurs in middle-aged and older women. The median age at the time of breast cancer diagnosis is 62. This means half of the women who developed breast cancer are 62 years of age or higher when they are diagnosed. A very small number of women diagnosed with breast cancer are younger than 45,” explains the American Cancer Society.

Moreover, in terms of breast cancer incidence in men, the BCRF² added, “About one in 833 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. While that statistic may not sound as daunting as the equivalent for women—one in eight will be diagnosed in their lifetime—the fact that male breast cancer is so rare makes it uniquely challenging.”

If you or a loved one is currently undergoing breast cancer treatment or recovering from surgery, a Home Helpers caregiver can provide the compassionate support you need. Our professional, highly trained caregivers are dedicated to Making Life Easier® by assisting with personal care, light housekeeping, grocery shopping and meal preparation, transportation to and from medical appointments, and much more.

I am happy to offer a FREE Assessment to discuss needs and recommend specific in-home care services we can provide to help you or your loved one who is navigating the challenges that come with breast cancer treatments and recovery.

Sources:

American Cancer Society¹

American Cancer Society’s²

Breast Cancer Research Foundation¹

Breast Cancer Research Foundation²

Breastcancer.org

6 Suggestions for Seniors to Stay Steady and Prevent Falls

Post author By Home Helpers of Kankakee and Frankfort
Post date September 29, 2025

For nearly two years, a compassionate Home Helpers caregiver was helping an elderly woman in her 90s who lived alone. She cherished her independence and insisted on doing many things on her own. Her daughter lived in Michigan and would visit a few times each year.

After the elderly woman had fallen a few times and suffered an especially nasty fall one night, her daughter decided to move her to an assisted living facility nearby.

Another case that comes to mind involves a senior man with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that causes the loss of balance, which resulted in him experiencing multiple falls.

Our care team at Home Helpers has helped hundreds of seniors over the years, and I can honestly say that the majority of them have suffered at least one fall for various reasons, and statistics support this.

Every 11 seconds, a senior is seen in an emergency department after having suffered a fall.
More than one in four seniors aged 65+ falls each year in America.
Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including more than 800,000 hospitalizations.
The financial toll for seniors falling is expected to reach more than $101 billion by 2030, due to our ever-increasing aging population.

According to the National Council on Aging, “Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten senior safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs.”

We all know seniors who have fallen. Many of our Home Helpers clients reported having fallen before beginning in-home care services, and they have an inherent fear of falling again.

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month, and knowing the serious nature of fall injuries suffered by seniors, I want to review six suggestions for seniors to stay steady and prevent falls as recommended by the Illinois Extension, an organization at the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences, and the National Council on Aging (NCOA).

Find a good balance and exercise program to help improve balance, build strength, and increase flexibility. To make it more enjoyable and promote accountability, bring a friend along!
Ask your primary care provider about a fall risk assessment and let them know about any falls you’ve experienced.
Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if some side effects may increase your risk of falling. Always take medications as they are prescribed.
Get annual vision and hearing exams and ensure eyeglasses are updated if necessary. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
Talk to your family members and enlist support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a senior issue.
Keep your home safe by removing tripping hazards, increasing lighting in darker rooms, corridors, and staircases, to ensure stairs can be navigated safely, and installing grab bars in or near the tub, shower, and toilet.

“Falls, with or without injury, also carry a heavy quality-of-life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, they limit their activities and social engagements. This can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness,” says the NCOA.

At Home Helpers, our mission is to provide the support necessary for seniors to continue living independently at home for as long as possible. Every day, our experienced caregivers help make life easier and safer by offering compassionate care that preserves dignity and enhances quality of life.

To ensure each family receives the right level of support, I proudly offer a FREE Assessment. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your senior loved one’s unique needs, and I will create a personalized care plan designed to promote independence and well-being. I’ll also provide a home safety check to identify potential fall risks and make recommendations to help keep your senior loved one safe at home.

Sources:

Illinois Extension

National Council on Aging

24-Hour Monitoring is Making Life Easier for Seniors to Maintain Independence in Kankakee & Frankfort

Post author By Home Helpers of Kankakee and Frankfort
Post date August 28, 2025

One of the biggest concerns for families is ensuring their aging loved ones can stay safe and independent while still living at home.

Since August is Medical Alert Awareness Month, this is the perfect time to share something we’re proud to offer at Home Helpers: 24-hour monitoring to make life easier so seniors can maintain their independence in Kankakee and Frankfort.

Direct Link®, powered by Aloe Care Systems, is a national provider of Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) and other elder care monitoring services, offered through partners such as Home Helpers.

This 24-hour monitoring system enables users to connect to a monitoring center 24/7/365 by pressing a button on a wearable device or a base unit, with options including cellular, or mobile GPS-enabled systems. Services can also consist of wellness checks to support independent living.

Using Direct Link® is as Easy as 1-2-3!

Activation: The user presses the button on their help device or base unit.
Connection: The system connects them to a US-based monitoring center.
Assistance: Trained operators assess the situation and can dispatch help, contact family members, or provide other necessary support.

Direct Link® Services

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Traditional medical alert systems with landline or cellular-based options.
Mobile GPS Systems: Portable devices with GPS tracking for users on the go.
Wellness Checks: Scheduled calls from a call center to ensure a senior’s well-being and provide reminders.

Key Features

24/7 Monitoring: Access to a U.S.-based monitoring center at any time.
Waterproof Buttons: Help buttons designed for wear in the shower.
Two-Way Communication: Built-in speakers and microphones allow for direct conversation with the monitoring center.
Circle of Care: Users can designate family members, neighbors, or friends to be notified in an emergency.

Direct Link® services can be a real game-changer, especially for:

Seniors who may or may not need daily in-home care
Those recovering from an illness or injury
Families who want peace of mind

With everything going on in the world, many older adults are spending more time at home and seeing fewer visitors. Having a Direct Link® 24-hour monitoring system in place provides that extra layer of safety and connection.

Home Helpers has devices available at our office in Bourbonnais, so the system can be set up quickly, and we can ensure the features are functioning properly. Best of all, it’s a month-to-month service with no long-term contracts, no hidden fees, just reliable support when it’s needed most.

If you’re looking for a way to help your loved one stay safe and independent at home, Direct Link® and Home Helpers are simple solutions that can make a huge difference. Thanks to our compassionate, professional caregivers, Home Helpers® is Making Life Easier℠ and safer for seniors by providing in-home care services and 24-hour care services, in conjunction with Direct Link® medical alert systems.

If you have questions about how monitoring fits into senior care, you can check out our website, or I will gladly provide additional information during a FREE Assessment of needs at your convenience.

10 Pathways for Healthy Aging and Wellness

Post author By Home Helpers of Kankakee and Frankfort
Post date July 22, 2025

When I enthusiastically assumed ownership of the successful Home Helpers® Kankakee and Frankfort franchise last spring, my goal was to continue providing quality in-home care for seniors and veterans in the Kankakee area. One of the most important aspects of managing a home care agency is ensuring our senior clients are on a positive journey of health and wellness as they age.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says, “Many factors influence healthy aging. Some of these, such as genetics, are not in our control. Others — like exercise, a healthy diet, going to the doctor regularly, and taking care of our mental health — are within our reach.”

The NIA supports research that has identified 10 pathways for healthy aging and wellness, enabling seniors to live as independently as possible and maintain a healthy quality of life.

Exercise and Stay Active for Physical and Mental Health

Scientific evidence suggests that people who exercise regularly not only live longer but also may live better — meaning they enjoy more years of life without pain or disability.

Choose Nutritious Foods

You’ve heard the cliché, “You are what you eat.” This is true because healthy food choices can help prevent certain health problems and improve brain function. Poor food choices can lead to chronic illness and cognitive decline.

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide healthy eating recommendations for each stage of life. The Dietary Guidelines suggest an eating pattern with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins.

Get Quality Sleep

Not getting enough quality sleep can make a person irritable, depressed, forgetful, and more likely to have falls or other accidents.

Good sleep patterns can lower rates of insulin resistance, heart disease, and obesity while improving blood sugar levels, creativity, and decision-making.

Limit or Eliminate Alcohol & Monitor Medications

Alcohol dependence or heavy drinking affects every organ in the body, including the brain.

In addition to being cautious with alcohol, older adults and their caregivers should be aware of other substances that can be misused or abused. Because older adults are commonly prescribed opioids for pain and benzodiazepines for anxiety or trouble sleeping, they may be at risk for misuse and dependence on these substances.

Visit the Doctor Regularly

Going to the doctor for regular health screenings is essential for healthy aging. Getting regular check-ups helps doctors catch chronic diseases early and can help patients reduce risk factors for disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. People who went to the doctor regularly also reported improved quality of life and feelings of wellness.

It is recommended that seniors visit the doctor at least yearly and possibly more, depending on their health. You cannot reap the benefits of medical advancements without regular trips to the doctor for physical exams and other tests. Regular screenings can uncover diseases and conditions you may not yet be aware of, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Pay Attention to Mental Health

Mental health, or mental wellness, is essential to your overall health and quality of life. It affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others. Managing social isolation, loneliness, stress, depression, and mood through medical and self-care is key to healthy aging.

Avoid Social Isolation to Prevent Loneliness

As people age, changes such as hearing and vision loss, memory loss, disability, trouble getting around, and the loss of family and friends can make it difficult to maintain social connections. This makes older adults more likely to be socially isolated or to feel lonely. Although they sound similar, social isolation and loneliness are different. Loneliness is the distressing feeling of being alone or separated, while social isolation is the lack of social contact and having few people to interact with regularly.

Manage Stress

Stress is a natural part of life and comes in many forms. Sometimes stress arises from difficult events or circumstances. Positive changes, like the birth of a grandchild or a promotion, can cause stress too. Research shows that constant stress can change the brain, affect memory, and increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or related dementias.

Finding ways to lower stress and increase emotional stability may support healthy aging.

Be Cognizant of Moods and Depression

For some older adults with depression, sadness is not their main symptom. Instead, they might feel numb or uninterested in activities and may not be as willing to talk about their feelings. Depression not only affects mental health but also physical health.

If you think you or a loved one may have depression, start by making an appointment to see a doctor or health care provider. If you are thinking of harming yourself, get help immediately — call the 24-hour 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).

Participate in Leisure Activities and Hobbies

Your favorite activities aren’t just fun—they may also benefit your health. Research shows that engaging in hobbies, as well as social and leisure activities, can lower the risk of certain health conditions.

Music, theater, dance, creative writing, and other participatory arts show promise for improving seniors’ quality of life and well-being, from better cognitive function, memory, and self-esteem to reduced stress and increased social interaction. Even hobbies like caring for a pet can improve an aging adult’s health and quality of life.

Exercising, eating right, sleeping well, participating in social activities, and engaging with peers are all important factors in preserving a healthy quality of life.

August is National Wellness Month, and the compassionate, professional caregivers at Home Helpers are skillfully trained to provide quality senior care for aging adults in the Kankakee area and support the recommendations outlined above that promote healthy aging and wellness.

I gladly offer a FREE Assessment to discuss specific needs and review the home care services we provide, so I can prepare a personalized care plan to improve overall quality of life, preserve senior independence, and make life easier.

Source:

National Institute on Aging – National Institutes of Health

Home Helpers Informational Videos

Post date July 11, 2025

Home Helpers Exists to Support Senior Independence and Make Life Easier

Post author By Home Helpers of Kankakee and Frankfort
Post date June 24, 2025

A Home Helpers client was determined to go somewhere. The 77-year-old gentleman had not driven his truck in more than two years due to complications from Parkinson’s disease, but in his mind, he had to go.

The man hoisted himself into the driver’s seat. He fiddled with knobs and tried desperately to engage the gearshift, but the engine wasn’t running. His caregiver did not know where the keys were, and if she did, she would not have told him.

Unfortunately, his grandson had driven the truck and left the keys in the console. The elderly man found the keys, figured out how to start the engine, and put his hand on the gearshift. The caregiver screamed, “NOOO!”. Fortunately, he removed his hand from the gearshift, killed the engine, and stepped out of the truck. He was angry and agitated, but the caregiver was determined to keep the man safe.

The truck was parked in the garage. If the man had changed gears from “Park,” he would have plowed through a wall or backed into the garage door and the caregiver’s car parked behind. It was a tense situation, to say the least, but the caregiver was trying to give him a sense of independence by letting him sit in his truck (not knowing the keys were readily available).

I tell you this story because this is one man in cognitive decline who valued his senior independence. This man is the patriarch of a large family who frequently hosts gatherings. He had been an astute, hardworking businessman, had traveled the world, had been an active, generous philanthropist, had attended his grandchildren’s athletic events, and was always on the go. Parkinson’s changed all of that.

Seniors have one primary goal, and it is to maintain their independence. Home Helpers exists to support senior independence and make life easier. Our award-winning home care services are how we do it.

Specialized Care

We understand the importance of finding the right caregiver for your loved one. That’s why we carefully match our clients with professional caregivers who are skillfully trained and have experience in providing specialized care for those with unique needs. Whether it’s due to aging, a disability, illness, or recovery from an injury or surgery, you can rest assured your loved one is taken care of.

Care and Companionship

The compassionate caregivers at Home Helpers are exceptional at forging relationships with our clients while providing customized in-home care and companionship.

24-Hour Monitoring

Effective 24-hour monitoring services and medical alert systems provide a safe, secure solution to these obstacles, independence for seniors and others requiring in-home care, and peace of mind for those who care for them.

Nutrition and Well-Being

Our goal at Home Helpers is to provide a personalized and holistic approach to home health care for seniors. We offer a comprehensive Cared-4℠ program that includes nutrition and well-being.

Caregiver Meal-Prep Services

Wellness Calls

At Home Helpers, we understand that the need to connect with others remains, especially for older adults living alone or far from their loved ones. Wellness calls provide much-needed companionship and reminders for loved ones and can be scheduled as often as you or your loved one would like.

Senior Care

Our care team is highly trained, experienced, compassionate, and understanding when it comes to senior care. They understand the importance of preserving your loved one’s independence and provide care respectfully and mindfully. Our caregivers are also background-checked, fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind.

Every senior has unique needs. That’s why we offer custom care plans that are tailored to address them. If or when needs change, care plans can adapt accordingly. Whether your loved one requires care for a few hours a week or around-the-clock, we can accommodate them. Our caregivers are dedicated to delivering quality care.

As professional caregivers, they know what to do to properly care for and assist seniors in a variety of circumstances to preserve their independence at home for as long as possible. Moreover, our caregivers are available to provide exceptional in-home care services 24/7/365.

I welcome the opportunity to schedule a FREE Consultation at your convenience to discuss the many ways a perfectly matched caregiver can provide home care assistance. This comprehensive assessment of needs will allow me to create a customized care plan to best support senior independence for you or a senior you love.