Author: A Place At Home

Your loved one is coming home from a skilled nursing facility or rehab center. You have a date. Now you need a plan for the house.

The home they’re returning to is probably not set up for someone who just had a hip replacement, a stroke, a cardiac event, or major surgery. Most homes aren’t. But with some targeted preparation, you can make it dramatically safer and more comfortable for the first weeks of recovery.

Use this checklist as your starting point.

 

Before They Walk Through the Door

Confirm the discharge plan in writing. Before your loved one leaves the facility, make sure you have the discharge summary in hand. It should include the current medication list (with dosages and timing), any dietary restrictions, activity limitations, wound care instructions, and a schedule for follow-up appointments. If anything is unclear, ask before they leave. This is not the moment to assume.

Arrange home care before discharge day. If you’re working with a home care agency in North Austin, have the caregiver schedule set before your loved one arrives home. The first 24 to 48 hours at home are often the most disorienting, and having support in place from day one matters. A Place At Home – North Austin can coordinate with the facility’s discharge team to make this transition as smooth as possible. Call 512-521-3010 to get started.

Schedule the first follow-up appointment now. Seeing the primary care physician within the first week or two after discharge is one of the most effective ways to prevent a return to the hospital. Don’t wait until after they’re home to make the call. And make sure transportation is arranged if they won’t be driving.

Fill all prescriptions before discharge. Ask the facility what new medications have been prescribed and get them filled ahead of time. Coming home to a medication gap on day one is unnecessary stress.

 

In the Bedroom

• Move the bed to a height that allows them to get in and out safely without overextending
• Clear a path from the bed to the bathroom with no obstacles, rugs, or cords
• Place a nightlight on the route to the bathroom
• Keep a phone or personal alert device within reach of the bed
• Make sure their most-used items (glasses, medications, water) are within arm’s reach without needing to bend or stretch

 

In the Bathroom

The bathroom is where most post-discharge falls happen. Don’t skip this section.

• Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub (these are not the same as a towel rod; towel rods will not support body weight)
• Place a non-slip mat inside the shower or tub and on the bathroom floor
• Add a shower chair or bench if your loved one cannot stand for the duration of a shower
• Consider a raised toilet seat if they’re recovering from hip or knee surgery
• Remove the bathroom door lock or replace it with a type that can be opened from the outside in an emergency

 

In the Kitchen

• Stock the refrigerator and pantry with foods that meet any dietary guidelines from the facility (low sodium, soft foods, high protein, etc.) If you need prepared meals to meet these requirements, you should check out Clean Eatz in Round Rock and they can deliver. 
• Move frequently used items to counter height so they don’t need to bend or reach overhead
• Clear clutter from walkways and cooking areas
• If they’re prone to confusion or memory issues, consider a simple, color-coded medication organizer kept in a visible spot

 

Throughout the Home

• Remove throw rugs. All of them. They’re fall risks, full stop.
• Secure or remove any loose electrical cords from walkways
• Make sure stairways have secure handrails on both sides if possible
• Rearrange furniture to create clear, wide pathways (especially if a walker or wheelchair will be in use)
• Check that lighting is adequate in every room they’ll use regularly; add lamps where needed
• Consider a personal emergency response system (a wearable button they can press to call for help if they fall or feel unwell)

 

Home Health Prescription and Medical Equipment

Two things families frequently forget to confirm before discharge, and both can create real problems on day one.

Home health requires a physician’s order. If your loved one’s discharge plan includes skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, or occupational therapy at home, make sure the prescribing physician has actually submitted that order before discharge. It sounds like a given, but it gets missed. Without it, the home health agency has nothing to work from, and your loved one could go days without care they’re supposed to be receiving. Confirm the order is in place and ask for the name of the home health agency that will be assigned.

Medical equipment needs to be in the home before they arrive. This means:

• Hospital bed (if needed for recovery or safety)
• Wheelchair or transport chair
• Walker, cane, or other mobility aids
• Bedside commode
• Oxygen equipment (if prescribed)
• Any wound care supplies specified in the discharge instructions

The facility’s discharge planner should coordinate durable medical equipment (DME) delivery through Medicare or insurance. But “should” and “did” are two different things. Confirm delivery is scheduled and, if possible, that someone will be at the home to receive it.

And if the equipment that shows up isn’t right for your loved one’s needs, push back.

Stacey learned this firsthand with one of our clients. After discharge, the client needed a hospital bed at home. Stacey fought to make sure it was arranged and in place before the client arrived. When a barely functional mechanical bed was finally delivered, she didn’t accept it. She tracked down a solid, properly working replacement because her client needed it and deserved it.

That’s what advocacy looks like in practice. A discharge plan on paper means nothing if the equipment on the ground doesn’t support a safe recovery. Don’t be afraid to make noise when something isn’t right. And if you’re not sure what to push for or who to call, that’s exactly the kind of thing we help families navigate at A Place At Home – North Austin.

 

Medications

This one deserves its own section because medication errors are one of the most common reasons seniors end up back in the hospital after discharge.

• Create a written medication list: drug name, dose, what it’s for, and time of day
• Use a pill organizer sorted by day and time
• Confirm no medications from before the rehab stay were discontinued; don’t assume the old regimen still applies
• If there are four or more medications, ask the pharmacist to do a medication review to check for interactions
• Have a plan for who manages medication reminders if your loved one has memory issues

 

The Emotional Side of Coming Home

Here’s something that often gets overlooked in all the logistics: coming home after a rehab stay can be emotionally hard for your loved one, even when it’s what they wanted.

They may feel frustrated by what they can’t do yet. They may feel a loss of independence. Some experience anxiety about being away from the clinical support of the facility. This is normal, and it passes, but it helps to name it.

Companionship and consistency make a difference. A regular caregiver who shows up at the same time, learns their routines, and genuinely engages with them as a person, not just a list of tasks, is worth more than most families realize until they see it in action.

Stacey Eisenberg has written thoughtfully about the full picture of what families go through during this transition. Her article Oh No, My Parent or Loved One is About to Be Discharged from Rehab. What Do I Do Now? is a good read for anyone feeling uncertain about what to expect.

 

Ready to Talk Through Next Steps?

A Place At Home – North Austin serves families in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and surrounding communities. Our caregivers are experienced in post-rehab and post-hospitalization support. We work around your loved one’s schedule, care plan, and goals for recovery.

Call us at 512-521-3010 or visit aplaceathome.com/north-austin  to learn more.

And for additional guidance on keeping your loved one out of the hospital after they’re home, read Stacey’s article: How to Prevent Hospital Readmissions for Seniors.

Most people don’t think about getting out of bed until it becomes hard.

For seniors living at home in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and the surrounding areas, those first and last hours of the day are often the most vulnerable and the most overlooked. That’s where wake-up and turn-down shifts come in.

What Is a Wake-Up Shift for Senior Care?

A wake-up shift covers the morning hours when a little help goes a long way. A caregiver comes to your home and helps with getting out of bed safely, toileting, dressing, and breakfast. If you have somewhere to be — a senior day program, a doctor’s appointment, or a trip to the community center — they can make sure you get there.

It’s not about taking over. You can start small with home care. It’s about making the morning feel manageable again.

What Is a Turn-Down Shift?

When the day winds down, a turn-down shift picks up. A caregiver helps with dinner, bathing if needed, changing into comfortable clothes, and getting settled for the night. You go to bed feeling cared for, not exhausted from struggling through a routine that used to feel simple.

Why These Two Shifts Matter More Than People Realize

Falls happen most often in the morning and evening. Fatigue sets in at both ends of the day. Family caregivers burn out fastest when they’re handling the early morning and late-night routines on top of everything else.

Targeted in-home care at those peak moments, without requiring full-time help, is one of the smartest ways families in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and nearby communities are keeping their loved ones safely at home longer.

Dignity Is in the Details

Getting dressed matters. Being helped with a buttoned shirt or changed into pajamas with patience and respect is not a small thing. It’s what makes in-home care feel human instead of clinical.

Serving Seniors Across North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Surrounding Areas

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we design care around your actual schedule and needs. Wake-up and turn-down shifts are available on their own or as part of a broader care plan. Whether you need help five mornings a week or just weekend evenings, we build it around you.

If you or someone you love is struggling with those first or last hours of the day, let’s talk.

Contact A Place At Home – North Austin or call us to learn more about in-home senior care serving North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and the communities around them.

Dementia changes daily life fast.

One week, your dad forgets where he left his wallet. The next week, he forgets what a wallet is for. Families across North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and surrounding communities often tell us the same thing. They noticed changes. They had concerns. They did not expect the need for help to grow so quickly.

That is why strong dementia care matters so much here in Central Texas. Families need support that feels personal, practical, and close to home. They need care that meets their loved one where they are right now, not where they were six months ago.

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we stay focused on learning, improving, and bringing better care home to local families. That commitment recently took another step forward when senior care expert Stacey Eisenberg attended the 2026 Alzheimer’s Community Leaders Summit. The summit brought together care leaders, dementia care professionals, and advocates focused on improving support for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Stacey took part in those conversations to help strengthen the way our team serves families across North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and nearby communities.

Read the full press release here: Stacey Eisenberg of A Place At Home North Austin Attends 2026 Alzheimer’s Community Leaders Summit

Families also benefit from the depth of experience behind our team. Stacey brings nearly four decades of experience to this work, and our Community Care Coordinator is a certified dementia care instructor through dementia expert Teepa Snow. That combination of long-term leadership and focused dementia education helps us train caregivers with both skill and heart.

 

Why Dementia Care Matters So Much in Texas

Texas families already carry a heavy load when it comes to aging and long-term support. America’s Health Rankings shows that Texas has a high percentage of older adults dealing with frequent physical distress, multiple chronic conditions, and falls. Those issues do not cause dementia, but they often make dementia care much harder. When memory loss overlaps with mobility issues, medication concerns, or chronic illness, daily life gets more complicated for both the older adult and the family caregiver.

That is what many families in Central Texas are living right now.

A daughter in Round Rock may worry about wandering and falls simultaneously. A spouse in Georgetown may observe memory changes, sleep disruption, and increasing confusion. A son in North Austin may realize his mom needs more support after one missed medication turns into several missed meals and a rough, unsteady week.

Dementia rarely travels alone. It usually shows up alongside other health and safety concerns. That is why trained in-home care and support matters so much.

 

What Alzheimer’s Summit Learning Means for Local Families

Professional development is not just a box to check. It shapes the care families receive every day.

When leaders attend events like the Alzheimer’s Community Leaders Summit, they bring back practical ideas that can improve daily life at home. That learning can shape how caregivers respond to confusion, how routines are built to lower stress, and how care plans reflect a client’s personality, habits, and changing needs.

That kind of learning does not stay in a notebook. It shows up in the home.

It occurs when a caregiver uses reassurance rather than correction. It shows up when a care plan reflects the time of day a client feels most settled. It shows up when a family receives support from a team that understands dementia care requires patience, structure, and ongoing education.

Families do not need generic care. They need informed care.

 

Why In-Home Dementia Care Helps

Home matters.

For a person living with dementia, familiar surroundings can lower confusion and reduce stress. The same kitchen. The same chair. The same hallway. The same family photos on the wall. These details help anchor the day.

In-home dementia care also helps restore something families often lose early: routine.

Routine helps with meals. Routine helps with bathing. Routine helps with sleep. Routine helps with medication reminders. Routine helps lower stress for both the person receiving care and the family trying to hold everything together.

That kind of support matters even more in a fast-growing area like ours. Families in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Hutto, Liberty Hill, and nearby communities want care that feels local. They want help from people who understand Central Texas families and the daily pressure adult children and spouses often carry.

 

How We Train Caregivers for Dementia Care

Good dementia care starts with people.

Families are not just looking for someone to help with tasks. They are looking for someone who understands memory loss, changing behaviors, communication challenges, and the emotional weight dementia places on the whole family.

That is why caregiver training matters so much.

At A Place At Home – North Austin, that training starts with experienced leadership. Stacey brings nearly four decades of experience to senior care, and our Community Care Coordinator is a certified dementia care instructor through dementia expert Teepa Snow. That gives our team a stronger foundation for teaching caregivers how to respond to confusion, reduce stress, support routine, and protect dignity at every stage of care.

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we focus on preparing caregivers to support the real situations families face every day. That includes learning how to respond calmly during confusion, how to support routines that lower stress, how to notice changes that may need extra attention, and how to care for the person in a way that protects dignity.

Dementia care is never one-size-fits-all. One person may need help with bathing and meals. Another may need reassurance during periods of agitation or confusion. Another may need a caregiver who understands how to create a calmer evening routine when late-day stress starts to rise. Training helps caregivers respond with confidence instead of guesswork.

The home care industry recognizes the value of both client satisfaction and caregiver support. Home Care Pulse explains that Provider of Choice recognition reflects strong client satisfaction, while Employer of Choice recognition reflects strong caregiver satisfaction. We are proud that A Place At Home – North Austin has been recognized as both a Best of Home Care Provider of Choice and a Best of Home Care Employer of Choice.

That matters because families benefit when caregivers feel supported, prepared, and equipped to do the job well.

 

Why Quality Standards Matter in Texas

Strong home care does not happen by accident.

Home Care Pulse describes its benchmarking report as one of the most comprehensive studies in home care, built from data and best practices shared by providers across North America. 

That tells families something important. Texas families are looking for high-quality home care, and the agencies that rise to the top do so through training, consistency, and listening to both clients and caregivers.

 

What Good Dementia Care Looks Like in Real Life

Dementia care often comes down to moments.

A caregiver notices that a client becomes anxious before dinner each day, prompting a change in the routine. A family member shares that Mom responds better when someone plays her favorite music during personal care, so that becomes part of the plan. A spouse says repeated questions create tension, so the caregiver uses reassurance and redirection instead of correction.

These sound like small changes. They are not small.

They change the feel of the day. They lower stress. They build trust. They help families feel less alone.

That is what families in Central Texas want—not rushed care. Not generic care. Real care from trained people who understand dementia and know how to support both the client and the family.

How A Place At Home – North Austin Supports Local Families

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we believe dementia care should protect dignity while supporting the whole family. That means paying attention to the small details that shape the day. That means showing up prepared. That means staying current with best practices and turning what we learn into better support for families in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and surrounding communities.

No one gets excited to search for dementia care. Let’s be honest. This search usually starts after a hard moment. A wandering scare. A missed medication. A fall risk. A call from a neighbor. A quiet moment in the car when someone finally says, “We need help.”

That moment feels heavy. It also creates a chance to make things better.

Families do not need every answer right away. They need a place to start. They need a plan. They need support that helps a loved one stay safer, feel more comfortable, and experience more calm at home.

That is what good dementia care can do.

 

Looking for Dementia Care in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Nearby Areas?

If your family is looking for dementia care in North Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, or surrounding Central Texas communities, now is a good time to ask better questions and get a clearer plan.

Because dementia care is not only about getting through the day.

It is about helping the day feel more manageable, more peaceful, and a little more like home. We are always here to be a resource and answer any questions you may have.

Two hours can change everything.

Give a senior a little help early, and you can keep the big worries at bay.

Aging in place matters. Nearly nine out of ten adults between fifty and eighty want to stay put, but only fifteen percent have taken a hard look at adding grab bars, brighter lights, or other safety tweaks. Almost half admit the idea has barely crossed their minds. The challenge grows for solo agers: forty-eight percent say no one could help with bathing or dressing, and just nineteen percent feel sure they could afford paid support. These eye-opening facts from the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, backed by AARP and Michigan Medicine, power our “start small, start early” caregiving playbook. 

We never set long minimum shifts. Why? Because life rarely assigns need in tidy four-hour blocks! Maybe Mom only needs someone to fix lunch and keep her company while she watches her favorite game show. Perhaps Dad wants a safe ride to his barber and a steady arm on the walk back to the porch. For families testing the waters, a marathon visit feels wasteful, even scary. Starting small spares budgets, builds trust, and lets older adults warm up to the idea of another friendly face in the house.

Mr. Manor (details changed to protect his privacy) proves the point. He swore he was “fine on his own” yet kept missing his Thursday bingo games because he no longer felt steady. We paired him with Vi for a two-hour Thursday shift: ride, game, and a quick grocery stop on the way home. Six weeks later, Mr. Manor brags that he’s the one “saving” Vi’s schedule; he refuses to cancel and won’t let his grandchildren do the driving because “Vi and I already planned our snack run.” A tiny slice of time gave him back a beloved routine and his family fresh peace of mind.

Want to see the same effect in your world? Try these steps:

1. List one or two stubborn tasks. Think meals, laundry, rides, or medication prompts, nothing grand, just the jobs that steal your sleep.

2. Pick a tiny window. Two to three consistent hours work best. Seniors adjust faster when the visit feels predictable.

3. Add personality, not just skills. We match caregivers to hobbies and humor styles as carefully as we match them to care needs. Connection keeps the visit fun.

4. Step back and watch the ripple. Relief shows up first for the senior, then for you, and finally for the whole family calendar.

Starting small today is better than waiting for a crisis tomorrow. Flexible scheduling respects both the senior budget and the senior pride. We do the right thing because the right thing always wins, every time, for every family.

So, are you ready to discover what just a couple of hours a week can do for someone you love?

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we’re passionate about providing exceptional home care that goes beyond meeting basic needs. Our mission is to build trust, foster relationships, and improve the lives of seniors and their families. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that the community has voted us the Best Senior Care Service in the 2024 Best of Round Rock Awards!

This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes just one year after we opened our doors. Voted on by the Round Rock community, this award reflects the trust and support we’ve earned from the families we serve. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our amazing team of caregivers, who make a difference in the lives of seniors every day.

 

A Milestone Worth Celebrating

For owner Stacey Eisenberg, this award is more than just a trophy—it’s a celebration of what compassionate senior care can achieve in a thriving community like Round Rock.

“We’re incredibly honored to receive this award in our very first year,” said Stacey. “From day one, our goal has been to provide seniors and their families with more than just home care. We wanted to create meaningful connections, provide peace of mind, and make every interaction count. This recognition affirms that our approach resonates with the community, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we understand that quality senior care is deeply personal. Every senior has unique needs, and every family deserves a care plan tailored to their situation. Whether it’s companion care, specialized in-home support, or memory care services, we aim to create a safe, supportive environment where seniors can thrive.

 

What Sets Us Apart in Senior Care

Winning the Best Senior Care Service award is a direct result of our dedicated team of caregivers. They go above and beyond to provide compassionate, professional home care services. Whether helping with daily activities, providing emotional support, or simply being a friendly face, our caregivers strive to make every moment meaningful.

Over the past year, we’ve built strong relationships with families across Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, and beyond. We’ve had the privilege of helping seniors maintain their independence and dignity, which is at the heart of everything we do.

 

Looking Ahead for Our Home Care Agency

For Stacey and her team, this award is just the beginning.

“We’re here for the long run,” Stacey shared. “This recognition motivates us to continue innovating, improving, and delivering exceptional home care to the seniors and families we serve. We’re excited for what’s ahead and committed to making a lasting impact in our community.”

As A Place At Home – North Austin celebrates this milestone, we’re more dedicated than ever to providing trusted senior care services. We want to thank everyone who voted for us and trusted us to care for their loved ones. Your support means everything; we can’t wait to continue this journey with you.

If you or a loved one are searching for reliable home care, compassionate senior care, or professional caregivers, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family.

Let’s continue creating meaningful connections, one family at a time.

When a loved one is discharged from the hospital or a skilled nursing facility, their recovery often requires extra support at home to ensure a safe, comfortable, and effective healing process. Families may choose to bring in home care (non-medical) or home health care (medical) services, or even a combination of both, depending on their loved one’s needs. 

Home care offers non-medical assistance such as help with daily activities, meal preparation, medication reminders, and companionship, typically provided on a flexible schedule that can range from a few hours per day to 24/7 care. This option is ideal for those who need consistent support but do not require medical interventions. 

Home health care, on the other hand, involves licensed medical professionals who manage clinical needs, such as wound care, physical therapy, and monitoring of vital signs. Often prescribed by a doctor, home health care usually involves scheduled visits of just a few hours per week, focusing on specific medical recovery goals. By integrating both types of care, families can ensure their loved ones receive comprehensive, personalized support for a more seamless and secure recovery journey.

Those most at risk for readmission after hospitalization or skilled nursing stays may benefit significantly from the additional support home care offers to help prevent setbacks and support a safe recovery.

• Older Adults with Mobility Challenges: Increased risk of falls and difficulty managing daily activities alone.
• Patients with Chronic Conditions: Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or COPD often require consistent monitoring and management.
• Individuals Recovering from Major Surgery: Post-operative care needs, including wound management and physical support, are crucial for healing.
• Those with Cognitive Impairments: Patients with dementia or memory issues benefit from assistance with routines, medications, and safety.
• Patients with Complex Medication Regimens: Those who need help managing multiple medications to ensure adherence and prevent complications.
• Individuals Living Alone: Without regular family support, these patients may struggle to maintain a safe and stable recovery environment.

Adding home care can provide these high-risk individuals with the consistent support they need to reduce readmission risks and support a smoother recovery. In summary, in home care offers:

• Customized Recovery: Each recovery is unique. Home care adapts to individual needs, covering essentials like meal prep, medication assistance, and daily tasks.
• Safety as a Priority: Falls are a serious concern among seniors. Home caregivers help reduce these risks, offering steady support and a safe home environment.
• Promotes Faster Healing: Home care reduces the chance of hospital readmission by 40% after surgery, paving the way for a smoother recovery.

Smooth Transition Home: Day-One Support

The transition home can feel overwhelming, but home care simplifies this process with:

• Home Safety Prep: Caregivers clear pathways and make adjustments to reduce fall risks.
• Hospital Transport and Comfort: Assistance from discharge to settling in at home.
• Complication Monitoring: Observing new routines and addressing early signs of issues, creating a secure transition.

Reducing Hospital Readmissions: Prevention First

Returning to the hospital is stressful and common for 20% of seniors within 30 days of discharge. Home care helps prevent setbacks with:

• Monitoring & Medication Management: Keeping track of medications and spotting early warning signs.
• Fall Prevention Strategies: Identifying and removing hazards, and providing physical support.
• Follow up Appointments: Adding in care coordination to make sure appointments are scheduled and attended helps the healing process. Home care can help clients navigate the complexities of their medical plan. 

Holistic Support: Body, Mind, and Spirit

Healing isn’t just physical. Home care supports emotional well-being too, easing isolation and providing companionship.

• Patient Preference: 70% of patients feel more comfortable and recover better at home with caregiver support.
• Social Interaction: Caregivers engage patients in activities, conversation, and routines that enhance mental and emotional health.

Personalized, Flexible Care Plans

Care needs vary, and home care agencies offer part-time to 24/7 support, with services tailored to each patient’s unique journey.

• Adaptable Schedules: Hourly or full-time options to suit family needs.
• Specialized Plans: Including support for physical therapy, dietary management, and tailored recovery goals.

Peace of Mind for Families: Quality Time Together

Home care takes on the caregiving details, allowing families to focus on quality time rather than constant worry.

• Professional Management: Caregivers handle emergencies, daily routines, and keep families updated, making recovery less stressful for everyone.

Key Benefits at a Glance

• 40% Fewer Readmissions: A significant reduction for post-surgery patients.
• 36 Million Falls Annually: Caregivers help reduce this risk, promoting safe movement at home.
• 70% Prefer Home Recovery: Patients heal better surrounded by loved ones with the help of caregivers.

Hiring home care after a hospital stay offers compassionate, skilled support, making recovery safer, smoother, and more comfortable.

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we are beyond excited to celebrate our co-owner, Bryan Eisenberg, who was recently recognized as the Chamber Ambassador of the Month by the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce!

Bryan’s commitment to making a difference doesn’t stop at our business’s front doors. As a Chamber ambassador, he’s extending his passion for connection and support to the entire local community. Whether welcoming new businesses, fostering collaboration, or advocating for local entrepreneurs, Bryan is always focused on strengthening the Round Rock business landscape.

In a recent Ambassador Spotlight, Bryan shared how much he values building relationships that create growth for the area. We see this dedication daily in his leadership at A Place At Home – North Austin. His community work mirrors the A Place At Home mission—to provide compassionate, personalized care for families who need it most.

Being named Ambassador of the Month is no small feat, and it’s a true reflection of Bryan’s hard work and his heart for the community. His recognition is not only a proud moment for us but also a reminder of how we can all create a ripple of positive change when we support one another.

It was only a year ago that Bryan and his wife, Stacey, opened their doors to the community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Round Rock Chamber. Year one was great, but we are very excited about the impact we can make on our clients, caregivers and community in this coming year and for many years to come.

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we’ve always believed that strong communities are built through kindness and collaboration. Recently, we experienced that firsthand while working with Will Williams from the Share the Will Foundation, Sertoma, Boy Scouts, and other local partners to give back to one of our very own local heroes: veteran Mr. Prue.

A Gift of Mobility for Mr. Prue

On September 21st, during the Honor Flight Austin meeting at the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), Mr. Prue received a motorized wheelchair—thanks to the joint efforts of everyone involved. This wheelchair will empower him with greater mobility and independence, just in time for his Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he’ll join fellow veterans to visit the war memorials and honor their service.

 

 

It was a moment of pure joy, made possible by the dedication of Will Williams and the Share the Will Foundation, with support from ATX WheelChair Transport and Mobility City. Together, we made sure Mr. Prue had exactly what he needed to fully enjoy his Honor Flight and navigate his daily life with ease.

The Power of Collaboration

Will Williams has been a champion for veterans in our community through his foundation, and this collaboration shows how much can be achieved when we all come together. “Our veterans deserve everything we can give them. This wheelchair is just a small way to say thank you for their service. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this happen for Mr. Prue,” said Williams.

 

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we’re honored to be part of initiatives like these, where we can not only care for veterans but also make a real difference in their lives. It was an absolute privilege to be part of this special day for Mr. Prue.

Preparing for Honor Flight Austin

As Mr. Prue looks ahead to his upcoming Honor Flight in October, we’re thrilled to know that his new motorized wheelchair will help him fully experience this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Supporting veterans like him is at the heart of what we do, and we’re proud to stand by his side as he embarks on this incredible journey.

 

This partnership shows the true power of community. Together, we can make an impact that goes beyond caregiving—it’s about dignity, respect, and ensuring our veterans and seniors know they are never forgotten.

Our Ongoing Commitment to Veterans

At A Place At Home – North Austin, we’re more than just a senior care provider. We’re dedicated to building meaningful relationships and creating moments that matter. Our partnership with Will Williams and the Share the Will Foundation is just one example of how we’re working to make a difference in the lives of local veterans and seniors.

 

Want to learn more about how you can get involved or support our veterans? Follow us for updates and find out how you can be part of these efforts to give back.

‘We’re not dead yet,’ Suzanne Herndon, 70, who moved to Sun City, Texas in 2021, told the UK paper DailyMail on why they chose to age in place there. Seniors can be full of life if given the right environment. The north Austin community of Georgetown, Texas, is officially the fastest-growing city in the country, partly due to its wealthy 55-and-older community called Sun City, Texas. The Wall Street Journal found Georgetown has been the top city for population growth for three years in a row. Several other high-growth areas are nearby, like Cedar Park, TX. 

Why are Sun City and Georgetown, TX, seeing that growth? Many seniors are moving to the enormous senior-planned community of Sun City because of its lively social scene, which includes community theater, game nights, fitness classes, sports teams, and so much more. They have built a community around aging in place, and even when the seniors reach a point where they can’t live on their own, countless nearby developments offer assisted living or memory care services so they can still live near the community and their friends. Sun City’s median age is 73, compared to the US average of 39.  Almost a fifth of Sun City’s residents are veterans, the WSJ found, and most served during the Korean or Vietnam wars. 

So why does this work so well for seniors? 

All homes in Sun City are designed for active adults aged 55 and over, focusing on low-maintenance living and accessibility features suitable for seniors. The homeowners’ association takes care of common area maintenance, allowing residents to enjoy their homes without the burden of a lot of property maintenance. Residents can access three world-class golf courses, state-of-the-art fitness centers, outdoor sports fields, and six resort-style swimming pools. Of course, it also offers the benefit of its proximity to Austin for activities. 

Most importantly, plenty of care resources are available for seniors in the area, including doctors who make house calls and ride services, like the newly offered nearby Round Rock Rides program. Even if you don’t live in Sun City, the north Austin area offers many advantages for seniors looking to age in place. If you are in the area and are helping a senior loved one who desires to age in place, I suggest you follow some of the tips our owner, Stacey Eisenberg, shared with the U.S. News and World Report in their recent article How to Set Up Your Home for Aging in Place. We are happy to do a free home assessment,  help you with your senior care coordination, and connect you with resources to keep your loved one aging in place.

Have you ever felt like a dried-out sponge in the summer heat? That’s exactly how many seniors feel if they don’t stay properly hydrated. Often, they don’t even know how to express it. This July, our owner, Stacey Eisenberg, is on a mission to prevent that with her “Preventing Dehydration in Seniors” classes!

Our first stop – Leander Station Senior Village in Leander and Merritt Heritage in Georgetown on July 8th. Stacey will share tips and tricks to keep our beloved seniors hydrated and healthy. She’ll cover everything from recognizing the signs of dehydration to easy ways to ensure seniors get enough fluids throughout the day.

On July 25th, Stacey will present at Bluffs Landing in Round Rock. These sessions promise to be informative and fun, with Stacey’s engaging teaching style and practical advice. She will find a way to put smiles on the seniors’ faces.

We all know hydration is crucial, especially for seniors who might not feel thirsty as often as they should. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, but with the proper knowledge, it’s entirely preventable. Stacey’s classes will also feature electrolytes provided by Jigsaw Health to ensure everyone stays energized and balanced.

So mark your calendars and bring your questions! Whether you’re a senior, a caregiver, or just someone interested in health and wellness, these presentations are for you. Let’s work together to keep our seniors happy, healthy, and hydrated this summer! Please reach out if you would like Stacey to present to your community. 

We recently helped one of our A Place At Home – North Austin companion clients get out of a less-than-ideal senior living situation and move them to a much safer and more compassionate environment. There are many great senior living options in the Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander, Hutto, and surrounding areas. Some, unfortunately, are less than great. 

Having grown up in nursing homes from the age of 3, and worked in all kinds of senior communities, from skilled nursing, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, assisted living, memory care, and even independent 55+ communities, one of the things I genuinely enjoy doing is helping families explore their senior living alternatives. It starts by knowing what questions to ask.

Recently, I was interviewed by Care.com about questions to ask staff when touring a facility. The reality is, as I mentioned in the article, the biggest issues come from families not asking enough questions. There are literally hundreds of questions that can be asked to help you find the right fit and keep your senior safe. The good news is that if you are in the North Austin area you can contact us to get a free in-home (wherever home may be) assessment and I would be happy to help you find the right place for your senior at no cost to you.

Do you have a senior who is struggling with their iPhone? 

As of their most recent update, iOS 17, Apple has introduced a simple mode to make using the iPhone more accessible for our seniors.

How to Enable iPhone’s Hidden Senior Mode:

Let’s go through a step-by-step guide to enable “Senior Mode” (Assistive Access) on an iPhone with iOS 17

Step 1: Update to iOS 17

• Make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 17. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and update if necessary

Step 2: Open Settings

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone

Step 3: Go to Accessibility

• Scroll down and tap Accessibility

Step 4: Find Assistive Access

• Scroll down to find and tap Assistive Access
• Click Set Up Assistive Access
• Verify Your Apple ID
• Follow the Steps to Give Permission to Setup

 

Step 5: Choose View Mode

• Select either Rows or Grid icons for the home screen display
• Rows View: Displays apps in a list format
• Grid View: Displays apps in a grid format

Step 6: Manage Apps

• Under the Apps section, tap Manage Apps to choose which apps you want to be available for the senior user
• Tap on the apps you want to add (e.g., Books, News, etc.)
• You can add or remove apps as needed

Step 7: Adjust Additional Settings

• Go through other settings to customize the experience (e.g., enabling Siri)

Step 8: Start Assistive Access

• Once all settings are configured, go back to the top of the Assistive Access page
• Tap Start Assistive Access

Step 9: Set a Passcode

• Enter a passcode to lock the settings and prevent changes by mistake

Step 10: Activate Senior Mode

• After setting the passcode, Assistive Access will be activated, simplifying the iPhone’s interface for senior users

The iPhone will now be in a simplified mode tailored for seniors, making it less confusing for them to use.

 

Want More iPhone Tweaks to Make It Easier for Seniors To Use?

There are several additional step-by-step guides to make the iPhone more straightforward to use for seniors. Many people aren’t aware of all these accessibility features built into the iPhone for seniors. Most people will enable several of these before they enable the “simple mode” we showed above.

 

Enlarge Text and Display

Increase Text Size:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Display & Brightness.
• Tap Text Size.
• Drag the slider to make the text larger.

Enable Bold Text:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Display & Brightness.
• Toggle the Bold Text switch to On.

Zoom:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Zoom.
• Toggle the Zoom switch to On.
• Double-tap with three fingers to zoom in and out.

 

Simplify Home Screen and Reduce Clutter

Create Folders or use Simple Mode as described above:

• Press and hold an app icon until it jiggles.
• Drag it over another app to create a folder.
• Name the folder something intuitive (e.g., “Games,” “News,” etc.).

Use Larger App Icons:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Home Screen.
• Under App Icons, choose Bigger.

 

Enable VoiceOver

Activate VoiceOver:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap VoiceOver.
• Toggle the VoiceOver switch to On.
• VoiceOver reads aloud text on the screen and provides auditory feedback for actions.

 

Customize Touch Settings

AssistiveTouch:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Touch.
• Tap AssistiveTouch and toggle it On.
• A floating menu will appear, providing easy access to common functions.

3D & Haptic Touch:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Touch.
• Tap 3D & Haptic Touch.
• Adjust the Touch Duration and Touch Sensitivity to suit the user’s needs.

 

Enable Hearing Enhancements

Hearing Devices:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Hearing Devices.
• Pair and customize settings for hearing aids.

Audio Accessibility Settings:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Audio/Visual.
• Adjust settings such as Headphone Accommodations, Mono Audio, and Phone Noise Cancellation.

 

Enable Emergency Features

Set Up Emergency SOS:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Emergency SOS.
• Enable Auto Call.
• Add emergency contacts under Emergency Contacts in Health.

Medical ID:

• Open the Health app.
• Tap the Medical ID tab.
• Tap Edit and enter medical details and emergency contacts.
• Ensure Show When Locked is enabled.

 

Simplify Navigation

Increase Button Shapes and Labels:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Display & Text Size.
• Enable Button Shapes and On/Off Labels.

Reduce Motion:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Accessibility.
• Tap Motion.
• Enable Reduce Motion to minimize screen movement.

These guides should help make the iPhone more accessible and easier to use for seniors, enhancing their overall experience. If the iPhone is still too complicated for your senior, there are a range of other great communication options available for seniors.

Ask any of our caregivers, others who are in the senior care industry, or me, and we’ll all tell you the best part about caring for seniors is the stories. 

Sadly, many families don’t take the time to document the stories of their loved ones. We certainly have regrets about not capturing these stories from our own parents. Our kids gifted a subscription to one of these programs, which sends you questions weekly, to our co-owner Bryan for his birthday this year. 

If you want to preserve your family legacy and discover different methods of capturing your family legacy stories, you can read our article.

Our owner and senior care expert, Stacey Eisenberg, will attend this invaluable event, which is hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association: Capital of Texas Chapter and the Round Rock Public Library.

Understanding & Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior
Thursday, May 9 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Meeting Room C

Learn about some of the common triggers for behaviors associated with dementia, how to assess a person’s needs, and how to intervene effectively.

All are welcome! Please join us and share with the community!

Learn more:
https://ow.ly/k0MY50QSS9L

For seniors in Central Texas, staying hydrated is crucial, especially with a long, hot summer predicted this year. Here’s why dehydration is a significant concern for seniors in the North Austin area:

• High Temperatures: I like to say Austin has three seasons: Weird, Hot, and Hotter. The intensity of the heat causes more sweating and fluid loss. This natural cooling method isn’t as efficient in seniors, increasing dehydration risks if not carefully managed.
• Air Conditioning: While essential for staying cool, air conditioning also makes indoor air dry, potentially increasing water loss through the skin and breathing, which can lead to dehydration.
• Sun Exposure: Activities outside, like walking or gardening, expose seniors to direct sunlight, which raises body temperatures and enhances fluid loss through sweat. 
• Humidity: We often experience high humidity, which can prevent sweat from evaporating and impair cooling, further increasing the risk of dehydration.
• Outdoor Activities: Active seniors may forget to drink more fluids to compensate for increased sweating during outdoor activities in warm weather, leading to faster dehydration.

With the summer forecast to be hotter than usual here in Austin, it’s vital for seniors and their caregivers to prioritize regular fluid intake and stay aware of dehydration risks.

To learn more about hydration in seniors, understand the risks of dehydration, and implement strategies to reduce dehydration, read my blog post on SeniorKareExpert.com or contact me to present to your community. 

Join our owner, Stacey Eisenberg, as she presents on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association Capital of Texas chapter at the Round Rock Public Library on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 1 pm. 

All are welcome—no need to register. 

To learn more about the event visit: https://www.roundrocktexas.gov/event/dementia-conversations-driving-doctor-visits-legal-financial-planning/ 

Learn to have honest and caring conversations about common concerns when someone begins to show signs of dementia.

Are you or your senior loved one feeling isolated? Are they withdrawing socially? Are they struggling with their daily life?

Your loved one does not need to feel alone, even if you can’t be with them at all hours.

They don’t want “strangers” to care for them, and you feel guilty that you aren’t doing enough. 

What if one of your “friends” could just spend a couple of hours getting to know them? To become THEIR friend and companion?

A compassionate caregiver can be there to listen, to engage, and to do their activities with them, not for them. A professional “friend” from A Place At Home begins to feel like a family friend simply by showing up consistently for shifts as short as 2 hours. It’s perfectly fine to start off small with in-home care and companionship. 

We are A Place At Home and want to be there for you and your family. 

Before you choose any in-home care agency, make sure to understand what questions to ask, what really matters in evaluating them, and what red flags to look out for. Download our PDF guide to hiring a home care agency.