About Senior Solutions Blog

Welcome to the September edition of THE PERK!

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 18:05:48 GMT

September is a month of new beginnings, meaningful connections, and reminders to care for both our hearts and minds. As summer begins to give way to fall, it's a wonderful time to reconnect with the people, activities, and simple routines that add purpose and joy to our lives.

This month, we celebrate National Grandparents Day on September 13 , honoring the special relationship between generations and the wisdom, stories, laughter, and love grandparents bring to our families. The original purpose of Grandparents Day was beautifully two-sided—to give grandchildren an opportunity to honor their grandparents and grandparents an opportunity to show love for their grandchildren.

September also reminds us that healthy aging means keeping our minds curious and engaged. National Read a Book Day encourages us to pick up an old favorite or discover something new. Reading, puzzles, conversation, and learning can all help keep our minds active—and that's exactly what The Perk Daily is all about!

History gives us plenty to remember this month, too! On September 1, 1979 , Pioneer 11 became the first spacecraft to visit Saturn, and in 1985 , a joint U.S.-French expedition located the wreck of the Titanic. On September 7, 1998 , Google was founded, and on September 15, 1982 , the first issue of USA Today was published.

Each day in this September issue brings another reason to smile, remember, learn, or start a conversation—from Pink Cadillac Day and National Star Trek Day to International Dot Day, Ancestor Appreciation Day, Good Neighbor Day, and World Heart Day . There's something new to discover every day.

And, of course, every issue includes a puzzle or brain game to give your mind a little workout along the way. After all, part of healthy aging is continuing to stay curious, engaged, connected—and having a little fun while doing it!

Happy September, and have fun with PERK!

View The September Perk September — A Month for Healthy Aging, Connection & Purpose

Healthy aging isn't only about adding years to our lives—it's about adding life to our years . Staying socially connected, keeping our minds active, caring for our physical health, and maintaining a sense of purpose can all contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.

September gives us plenty of opportunities to do just that:

National Read a Book Day – September 6 — Pick up a favorite book and give your brain—and yourself—a little quiet time.
National Grandparents Day – September 13 — Celebrate the stories, wisdom, traditions, and love shared between generations.
International Dot Day – September 15 — A reminder that creativity has no age limit. Make your mark, try something new, and don't be afraid to discover talents you didn't know you had.
Ancestor Appreciation Day – September 27 — Share family stories, preserve memories, and celebrate the people and experiences that helped shape who we are today. The Perk especially encourages recording the memories and stories of loved ones for future generations.
Good Neighbor Day – September 28 — Reach out, lend a hand, or simply say hello. Good neighbors help create stronger, more connected communities.
World Heart Day – September 29 — A timely reminder to eat well, stay active, manage stress, and spend time with people who make your heart happy.

Sometimes healthy aging begins with very small things: a walk, a phone call, a good book, a hearty laugh, a challenging puzzle, or sharing an old story with someone who hasn't heard it before.

Here's to a September filled with healthy hearts, active minds, wonderful memories, and meaningful connections.

Every Day Deserves a Bright Spot

Sometimes it's the smallest moments that make the biggest difference.

The Perk Daily was created to bring a little joy, spark a little curiosity, and encourage meaningful connections for seniors, caregivers, and families—one day at a time.

Uplifting inspiration to start your day
Brain-boosting facts, puzzles, and trivia
Conversation starters that bring people together
Moments of laughter and encouragement
Simple ideas to stay connected, active, and engaged

Because every day is an opportunity to smile, learn, remember, and share life with others.

And sometimes, the smallest moments create the biggest impact.

Download The Perk Daily and enjoy a little brightness every day!

"There is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way."
— Thich Nhat Hanh

A Note from About Senior Solutions

Supporting seniors and families through life's transitions is at the heart of what we do. Whether you need trusted resources, thoughtful guidance, or simply a caring conversation, we're here when you need us—just a call or click away.

Assisted Living vs. In-Home Care: How to Choose the Right Option for Your Parent in Los Angeles

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:12:52 GMT

It's one of the most common questions families ask when a parent starts needing more support: Should we keep them at home with some help, or should we look at assisted living?

Both options can be excellent. Both can also be wrong choices if they're not matched to the right person's situation. And too many families make this decision based on what feels emotionally comfortable — or what the hospital discharge planner recommends in a 10-minute conversation — rather than on a clear-eyed assessment of their loved one's actual needs.

At About Senior Solutions, we help families in Monrovia, Arcadia, Pasadena, Duarte, Glendora, and across Los Angeles County make this decision thoughtfully, with expert guidance and real knowledge of local options. This guide walks through the key factors to consider.

First: These Aren't Permanent Decisions

Before diving in, let's address the anxiety that often surrounds this choice: neither option is necessarily forever.

Many seniors start with a modest home care package — a few hours of help a day — and gradually increase support as needs grow. Others move to assisted living during a period of high need and later transition back home with more targeted support. Some families use a combination, with a senior living in an assisted living community while still receiving specialized care management from an independent advocate.

The goal isn't to find the "right answer" once and be done. The goal is to find the right answer for right now — with a clear picture of what comes next.

What In-Home Care Actually Looks Like

"Home care" covers a huge range of services. Families often imagine a full-time caregiver moving in, but in reality most in-home care is far more flexible:

Companion/homemaker care — Non-medical support including companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, errands, and transportation. Great for seniors who are relatively independent but benefit from structure and social connection.

Personal care (non-medical) — Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. Provided by home care aides or certified nursing assistants (CNAs).

Skilled home health — Medical services including nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or wound care, typically prescribed by a physician and delivered on an intermittent basis. Often covered by Medicare following a hospitalization.

Live-in or 24-hour care — For seniors who need around-the-clock support but can safely remain at home with continuous oversight.

Specialized memory care at home — Caregivers trained specifically to work with seniors who have Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

When In-Home Care Is the Right Choice

Home care tends to be the better fit when:

Your parent strongly prefers to stay at home and has the physical and cognitive status to do so safely
The home can be modified to be safe (grab bars, ramp access, cleared pathways)
Family members are available to supplement professional care
The level of medical or personal care need isn't so high that it requires round-the-clock nursing supervision
Your parent is socially connected through community, church, or regular family visits
The cost difference is manageable (home care can become expensive at high hours)

What Assisted Living Actually Looks Like

Like home care, "assisted living" is a broad category with a lot of variation underneath it.

Traditional assisted living communities typically offer private or semi-private apartments, meals in a communal dining room, activity programming, transportation, medication management, and personal care assistance. Staff are available around the clock, but residents generally maintain significant independence.

Memory care communities are specialized assisted living settings for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. These communities have secured environments to prevent wandering, staff trained specifically in dementia care, and programming designed for cognitive engagement.

Board and care homes (also called residential care homes or RCFEs in California) are small, licensed residential homes — often 6 residents — that provide a more intimate, family-style environment. Often less expensive than large corporate communities and sometimes a better fit for seniors who are overwhelmed by large facilities.

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) offer a full spectrum from independent living through skilled nursing, allowing seniors to age in place within one campus.

In the San Gabriel Valley and greater Los Angeles area, there is a wide range of options at different price points, care levels, and environments. Knowing how to evaluate them — and which ones actually deliver on their marketing — requires experience.

When Assisted Living Is the Right Choice

Assisted living tends to be the better fit when:

Your parent needs consistent support throughout the day that family or home care can't reliably provide
Social isolation is a problem at home and your parent would benefit from a structured community
The home environment has become unsafe and modifications aren't practical
The level of care need has outpaced what home care can manage affordably or safely
Your parent has dementia at a stage where supervision and a structured environment are necessary for safety
Family caregivers are burning out and need sustainable relief

The Cost Reality

Cost is a major factor for most families, and it's an area where the comparison is more nuanced than people expect.

In-home care is priced by the hour. In the Los Angeles area, rates for non-medical home care typically range from $25–$40+ per hour. At 8 hours a day, that's $200–$320 per day — or $6,000–$10,000 per month. For 24-hour care, costs can exceed $15,000–$20,000 per month.

Assisted living in the Los Angeles area ranges widely — from approximately $3,500–$5,000/month at the lower end to $7,000–$10,000+ per month for premium communities or higher levels of care. Memory care typically runs $1,000–$2,000 per month more than standard assisted living.

The crossover point — where home care costs exceed assisted living costs — typically occurs somewhere around 8–12 hours of daily care. For seniors needing less than that, home care is often more affordable. For seniors needing more, assisted living can actually be the less expensive option.

Neither option is typically covered by Medicare for long-term use. Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid program) covers skilled nursing facilities for eligible seniors. Long-term care insurance policies may cover either option, depending on the policy terms. Veterans benefits (through the VA) can help cover certain care costs for eligible veterans.

Understanding the financial picture is a critical part of any care planning process — and it's something we help families navigate.

The Factor Most Families Overlook: What Your Parent Actually Wants

It sounds obvious, but in the stress of a care crisis, families sometimes make decisions without fully including the senior in the conversation.

Your parent's preferences — about where they live, who provides their care, how they spend their days — matter. Not just for their happiness (though that matters enormously), but also because a senior who feels involved in and respected by their care decisions is more likely to accept and cooperate with that care.

This doesn't mean that a senior's preferences always override everything else. A parent with advanced dementia who insists on living alone in an unsafe situation isn't making a decision that family can simply defer to. But it does mean that the conversation should happen — honestly, with compassion, and with professional help if needed.

Our care managers are skilled at facilitating these conversations and helping families honor their loved one's wishes as fully as possible while still ensuring their safety.

How About Senior Solutions Helps

The assisted living vs. home care decision isn't made in a vacuum. It's shaped by your parent's specific medical needs, cognitive status, personality, social needs, financial resources, family support system, and personal wishes. Without a clear picture of all those factors, it's just guesswork.

That's why our process starts with a comprehensive assessment — not a brochure comparison of facilities.

Here's what we bring to this decision:

Independent objectivity. We don't receive referral fees from assisted living communities or home care agencies. Our only obligation is to your family.

Local market knowledge. We know the assisted living communities in the San Gabriel Valley and greater Los Angeles area — which ones are genuinely excellent, which ones have staffing problems, and which ones are a good fit for specific types of needs.

Vetted provider relationships. When home care is the right choice, we connect families with home care agencies that we trust. When assisted living is the right choice, we help identify communities that are actually appropriate for your parent's care level and personality.

Ongoing monitoring. After placement, we don't disappear. We continue to monitor care quality, communicate with staff and physicians, and stay in your corner through whatever comes next.

Whether you're in the early stages of thinking about this or facing an urgent decision, we're here to help. Reach out to us at (888) 736-5864 or contact us online .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: My parent wants to stay home no matter what. Do I have to respect that?

A: Your parent's wishes deserve real weight — and in most cases, staying home is a legitimate and achievable goal with the right support. The question becomes whether home can be made safe and sustainable. If your parent has the cognitive capacity to make their own decisions (even imperfect ones), their right to choose is significant. If cognitive decline has progressed to the point where they can't safely weigh risks, the family and care team may need to make decisions in their best interest. A professional care manager can help your family navigate this tension with clarity and compassion.

Q: How do we evaluate an assisted living community? What should we be looking for?

A: Beyond the marketing brochure, look for: staff-to-resident ratios, staff turnover rates (high turnover is a red flag), how staff interact with residents during your visit, whether the community can actually handle your parent's current and anticipated care needs, the community's approach to dementia care if applicable, licensing history and any state citations, and whether residents seem engaged and cared for. Also consider location — proximity to family for regular visits matters enormously. Our team can guide you through this evaluation process and accompany you on tours if helpful.

Q: What is a board and care home, and is it a good option?

A: A board and care home — formally called a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) in California — is a licensed residential home typically serving 6 residents. They offer a more intimate, home-like environment than large assisted living communities and are often less expensive. They can be a wonderful option, particularly for seniors who are overwhelmed by large facilities or who need close, consistent attention. Quality varies significantly, and they require careful evaluation. We work with board and care homes throughout the San Gabriel Valley and can help identify strong options.

Q: Can someone receive skilled nursing care at home, or do they need a facility for that?

A: Many skilled nursing services can be delivered at home — physical therapy, occupational therapy, wound care, IV medication administration, and nursing assessments, for example. Medicare covers skilled home health services when ordered by a physician following a hospitalization, as long as the patient is homebound and the care is considered medically necessary. The key distinction is between skilled nursing (intermittent medical care) and custodial care (ongoing personal care and supervision), which Medicare does not cover.

Q: My siblings and I are disagreeing about what's best for our parent. How do we resolve this?

A: Sibling conflict around care decisions is extremely common, and it's one of the situations where professional care management adds the most value. We can conduct an objective assessment that gives all family members a shared, factual picture of your parent's situation — taking the "I think" out of the conversation. We can also facilitate family meetings and serve as a neutral voice when emotions make direct communication difficult. The goal is always to focus everyone on what's best for your parent, not on winning the argument.

Q: How do we pay for assisted living or in-home care?

A: The most common sources of payment are private funds (savings, retirement accounts, home equity), long-term care insurance, veterans benefits (for eligible veterans and surviving spouses), and for lower-income seniors, Medi-Cal for certain skilled nursing services. Medicare covers skilled home health and short-term skilled nursing following a qualifying hospitalization, but does not cover custodial care (help with daily activities) on a long-term basis. We can help your family understand the financial landscape and connect you with elder law attorneys and fi nancial advisors who specialize in this area.

What Is a Geriatric Evaluation — and Why Every Aging Senior Should Have One

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:04:17 GMT

If your aging parent has a primary care doctor, you might assume that's enough. Their annual physical covers the basics — blood pressure, cholesterol, basic labs. But here's something most families don't realize: a standard medical checkup is not designed to assess the full complexity of how an older adult is actually functioning in daily life.

That's where a geriatric evaluation comes in.

A professional geriatric evaluation goes far deeper than a medical exam. It looks at the whole person — physical health, cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, living environment, social connections, financial safety, and future care needs — and produces a clear picture of where a senior stands and what they need to thrive.

At About Senior Solutions, geriatric evaluations are one of our core services. We've seen firsthand how a thorough assessment can change the trajectory of a senior's care — catching problems early, preventing crises, and giving families a roadmap when they feel lost.

WANT TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU? CLICK HERE FOR A CONSULTATION

What a Geriatric Evaluation Actually Looks At

A comprehensive geriatric evaluation isn't a single test. It's a multi-dimensional assessment process that typically covers:

Physical Health & Functional Status

Current medical diagnoses and how well they're being managed
Medication review — are prescriptions current, appropriate, and being taken correctly?
Assessment of activities of daily living (ADLs) — dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, mobility
Assessment of instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) — managing finances, cooking, driving, using a phone
Fall risk evaluation and home safety

Cognitive & Neurological Assessment

Memory testing and cognitive screening
Evaluation for signs of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or mild cognitive impairment
Assessment of decision-making capacity
Review of any behavioral or personality changes

Emotional & Psychological Wellbeing

Screening for depression, anxiety, and social isolation
Assessment of grief, life transitions, and adjustment issues
Evaluation of stress on the family caregiver system

Living Environment

Safety of the home environment
Adequacy of current support (family, hired caregivers, community resources)
Transportation access and community engagement

Future Planning

What are the senior's wishes for care, living situation, and end-of-life decisions?
Are legal documents in place (advance directive, durable power of attorney, healthcare proxy)?
What resources — financial, community, and family — are available?

The result of this evaluation isn't a diagnosis. It's a comprehensive picture of where your loved one stands across all the dimensions of life that matter to aging well — and a set of specific, actionable recommendations.

Who Should Get a Geriatric Evaluation?

Geriatric evaluations are particularly valuable in several situations:

After a health crisis. A hospitalization, fall, stroke, or new diagnosis often marks a turning point. A geriatric evaluation helps families understand what changed, what the implications are, and what needs to happen next — before a crisis becomes a pattern.

When you're noticing changes, but nothing is "officially" wrong. Many of the early signs of cognitive decline, depression, or functional decline don't show up on a standard medical exam. A geriatric evaluation is specifically designed to detect these subtle but important shifts.

Before making a major care decision. If your family is considering in-home care, assisted living, or any other care transition, having a thorough evaluation first ensures that the decision is based on real, current information — not assumptions or guesswork.

For estate planning and legal purposes. Attorneys and fiduciaries often request geriatric evaluations to establish a senior's current cognitive and functional status, particularly when decision-making capacity is in question. Our team regularly provides evaluation services for legal and court-related purposes throughout Los Angeles County.

As a proactive wellness measure. You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from knowing where your parent stands. Many families request evaluations simply to establish a baseline — so they have something to compare to as time goes on.

What Makes a Geriatric Evaluation Different from a Doctor's Visit

Your parent's primary care physician is an important part of the picture, but they typically see patients for 15-20 minutes during a scheduled appointment. That's not enough time to comprehensively assess all the dimensions of aging — and most physicians aren't trained specifically in gerontology.

A professional geriatric evaluation conducted by a Certified Gerontologist:

Takes significantly more time — often two to five hours across one or more visits
Is conducted in the senior's home or living environment , not a clinical office
Includes in-depth conversation with both the senior and their family members
Assesses function in real life , not just clinical markers
Produces written recommendations that can be shared with physicians, attorneys, and family

At About Senior Solutions, our evaluations are conducted by a team with over 30 years of combined experience in senior care — and led by our founder, Mary Winners, a Certified Gerontologist with deep expertise in Alzheimer's and dementia care, gero-psychiatric issues, acute care hospitalization, assisted living, and hospice.

The Evaluation as a Foundation for Everything Else

One of the most powerful things about a geriatric evaluation is that it becomes the foundation for everything that follows.

When you know exactly where a senior stands — what they can do, what they're struggling with, what risks are present, and what they want — every subsequent decision gets easier. You're not making choices based on incomplete information or family conflict. You're working from a clear, expert-generated assessment that everyone can refer to.

This is especially important in families where siblings disagree, or where a parent is unwilling to be honest about their limitations. The geriatric evaluation provides an objective, credentialed picture that takes the argument out of the conversation.

For attorneys and fiduciaries in Los Angeles County, our evaluations also provide the kind of documented, professional assessment that holds up in court proceedings and conservatorship matters.

What Happens After the Evaluation

After completing a geriatric evaluation, About Senior Solutions provides a written summary of findings and a set of specific recommendations. Depending on your situation, those might include:

Recommendations for care level and living situation
Referrals to specific providers, physicians, or specialists
A safety plan for the home environment
Guidance on conversations to have with your parent or siblings
Resources for financial planning, legal documents, or community support
A care management plan if ongoing monitoring is appropriate

We stay available to answer questions after the report is complete — because real families need more than a document, they need someone they can call.

Serving Families Throughout the San Gabriel Valley

About Senior Solutions conducts geriatric evaluations throughout Los Angeles County, including Monrovia, Arcadia, Pasadena, Duarte, Azusa, Temple City, San Gabriel, Rosemead, Alhambra, Monterey Park, and surrounding communities.

If you're wondering whether a geriatric evaluation is right for your family, we invite you to call us at (888) 736-5864 or fill out our contact form. The conversation is free, and it may be the most important call you make for your loved one this year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatric Evaluations

Q: What's the difference between a geriatric evaluation and a geriatric assessment?

A: The terms are often used interchangeably. A geriatric evaluation or comprehensive geriatric assessment refers to the same multi-dimensional process of evaluating an older adult's physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and functional status. At About Senior Solutions, our geriatric evaluation is a thorough, whole-person process — not a standardized checklist.

Q: Does Medicare cover geriatric evaluations?

A: Medicare may cover certain cognitive assessments or Annual Wellness Visits conducted by a physician, but comprehensive geriatric care management evaluations like the ones we conduct at About Senior Solutions are generally not covered by Medicare. Some long-term care insurance policies do provide reimbursement. We're happy to discuss payment and coverage during an initial consultation.

Q: How long does a geriatric evaluation take?

A: A comprehensive evaluation typically involves one to three meetings and can take two to five hours in total. The process is intentionally thorough — we can't get a complete picture of a senior's life in a 20-minute visit. We work at a pace that is comfortable for the senior and their family.

Q: Can a geriatric evaluation help if my parent has already been diagnosed with dementia?

A: Absolutely. A geriatric evaluation can help clarify the current stage of dementia, identify the most appropriate care level and living situation, uncover any co-occurring conditions that may be affecting behavior, and create a care plan tailored to where your loved one is today — with a clear picture of what to anticipate as the condition progresses.

Q: Can the evaluation be done if my parent is currently in a hospital or rehab facility?

A: Yes. We can conduct evaluations in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living communities — not just in a private home. This is particularly useful when families are under time pressure to make a discharge or placement decision.

Q: Do you provide evaluations for legal purposes, such as conservatorship proceedings?

A: Yes. We regularly provide geriatric evaluation services for attorneys, fiduciaries, and courts throughout Los Angeles County. Our founder, Mary Winners, MSG, CPG, is a recognized expert in the field and has extensive experience providing evaluations and expert opinions for legal matters involving older adults. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Q: What if the evaluation reveals more problems than we expected?

A: This happens sometimes, and it's always better to know. The evaluation doesn't create problems — it identifies what was already there. And knowing the full picture is the only way to build a plan that actually works. Our team is experienced at delivering difficult findings with compassion and at helping families take the next steps, even when those steps are hard.

When Mom Can't Live Alone Anymore: A Step-by-Step Guide for San Gabriel Valley Families

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 15:48:57 GMT

There's a moment most adult children dread — the phone call, the visit home, the slow realization that something has shifted. Maybe Mom forgot to turn off the stove. Maybe Dad had a fall and didn't tell anyone for two days. Maybe you've started to notice that the house isn't as tidy as it used to be, or that she's lost weight and doesn't know why.

Whatever the sign, you're now facing one of the hardest questions in family life: What do we do now?

At About Senior Solutions, we've guided thousands of families through exactly this moment — across Monrovia, Arcadia, Pasadena, Duarte, and communities throughout Los Angeles County. In this guide, we'll walk you through the signs to watch for, the options available, and how a professional senior care manager can help your family find the right path forward.

WANT TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU? CLICK HERE FOR A CONSULTATION

The Warning Signs Families Often Miss

Not every sign of decline is obvious. Some of the most important signals are quiet ones:

Physical signs:

Unexplained weight loss or changes in eating habits
Difficulty getting up from chairs, new hesitation on stairs
Medication bottles that haven't been touched — or have been emptied too fast
Unusual bruises that may indicate unreported falls
A home that smells musty or shows signs of neglect

Cognitive signs:

Repeating questions or stories within the same conversation
Forgetting appointments, medications, or bill payments
Getting confused in familiar places or losing track of time
Withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy
Increased anxiety, suspicion, or personality changes

Social signs:

Pulling away from friends, family, or church activities
Relying on you for things they always handled independently
Becoming defensive when asked about how they're doing

One or two of these signs may not mean much on their own. But when patterns emerge — or when a health event like a hospitalization or fall brings things to a head — it's time to act.

You Have More Options Than You Think

Families in the San Gabriel Valley often come to us believing the only choice is a nursing home. In reality, the spectrum of care options is wide:

Aging in place with home support — Many seniors can remain in their homes safely with the right combination of in-home caregivers, meal services, medication management, and home modifications. This is often the preferred option for seniors who are still relatively independent.

Assisted living — Residential communities that provide personal care, meals, and social activities, while still allowing significant independence. Southern California has a wide range of options at varying price points and care levels.

Memory care — Specialized assisted living communities designed for seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia, or other cognitive conditions. Staff are trained in dementia-specific care, and environments are designed to minimize confusion and maximize safety.

Board and care homes — Smaller residential settings (typically 6 residents) that offer a more intimate, home-like environment. These are often less expensive than large assisted living communities and can provide very personalized care.

Skilled nursing facilities — For seniors who need medical care that can't be provided at home or in an assisted living setting, skilled nursing provides 24-hour nursing supervision.

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) — Communities that offer a full spectrum from independent living through skilled nursing care, allowing seniors to transition between care levels without moving facilities.

The right choice depends on your loved one's specific needs, preferences, financial situation, and prognosis. There is no universal answer — which is exactly why professional guidance matters.

Why Families Struggle to Navigate This Alone

Even educated, resourceful families often feel completely lost navigating senior care. Here's why:

The industry is fragmented. Referral services, doctors, hospital discharge planners, and insurance companies all have different — and sometimes conflicting — interests. Without an independent advocate, it's easy to end up in a facility that's convenient for the system, not right for your family.

Emotions run high. You're grieving your parent's independence while simultaneously trying to make rational decisions. Siblings disagree. Your parent resists. The guilt is real, and it clouds judgment.

The stakes are enormous. A wrong placement — whether it's an assisted living community that isn't equipped for your mom's level of dementia, or a care plan that doesn't account for her social needs — affects quality of life profoundly.

Time pressure is real. Hospital discharge planners may give families 24-48 hours to make a placement decision. Without prior knowledge of your options, those hours are terrifying.

How a Senior Care Manager Changes Everything

A professional senior care manager — like the team at About Senior Solutions — acts as your independent guide, advocate, and expert throughout the process. Here's what that looks like in practice:

Comprehensive Assessment. We begin with a thorough evaluation of your loved one's physical health, cognitive status, emotional wellbeing, living situation, social connections, financial picture, and personal wishes. This isn't a checklist — it's a real conversation that takes time and expertise.

A Custom Care Plan. Based on the assessment, we develop a specific plan of care tailored to your family's situation. This includes recommendations for living arrangement, caregivers, medical follow-up, social engagement, and more.

Provider Connections. We maintain relationships with vetted providers across the Los Angeles area — home care agencies, assisted living communities, physicians, attorneys, and financial advisors. We connect you with the right people, not just the available ones.

Ongoing Advocacy. Our role doesn't end at placement. We monitor care quality, communicate with medical providers, and stay in your corner through transitions and changes.

Family Coordination. When siblings disagree, or when the conversation with your parent feels impossible, we serve as an experienced, neutral third party who can facilitate honest discussion and help everyone get on the same page.

Our founder, Mary Winners, BSBA, MSG, CPG, has spent decades working within the healthcare system and now works as an independent advocate — for families, not facilities. In 2023, she was appointed Commissioner for Older Adults by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. That kind of credentialed, community-trusted expertise is what About Senior Solutions brings to every family we serve.

What to Do Right Now

If you're reading this, you probably already know something needs to change. Here are three concrete steps to take today:

Write down what you've noticed. Before any consultation, make a list of the specific behaviors, incidents, or changes that concern you. The more specific you can be, the better we can help.
Have an honest conversation with your siblings. If there are other family members involved, get on the same page about what you're seeing — before bringing in outside help. Disagreements are easier to manage when they're in the open.
Reach out for a consultation. You don't have to have all the answers before you call. That's what we're here for.

About Senior Solutions offers consultations to families throughout the San Gabriel Valley, including Monrovia, Arcadia, Pasadena, Duarte, Azusa, Glendora, Temple City, and surrounding communities. Call us at (888) 736-5864 or fill out our contact form to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my parent needs professional senior care management or just more family involvement?

A: A good rule of thumb is whether the situation has become complex enough that it's affecting your parent's safety, health, or quality of life — and whether your family has the time and expertise to manage it. If you're dealing with a medical condition like dementia, a recent hospitalization, medication management issues, or a living situation that isn't working, professional care management can be invaluable. Many families find that a single consultation helps them understand the landscape and decide whether ongoing support is right for them.

Q: My parent refuses to accept help. What can we do?

A: Resistance to help is extremely common — most seniors fear losing their independence, and accepting help can feel like admitting defeat. An experienced senior care manager can often have more success facilitating these conversations than family members, precisely because we're not caught up in the emotional history. Sometimes meeting with a neutral professional helps a senior feel heard rather than managed. We also focus on framing care in terms of what your parent wants — staying independent, staying home, staying connected — rather than what they can no longer do.

Q: What does a geriatric care manager cost?

A: Fees vary depending on the scope of services. An initial assessment and care plan may be a flat fee, while ongoing care management is typically billed hourly. Most senior care management services are not covered by Medicare or standard health insurance, though some long-term care insurance policies do provide coverage. We're happy to discuss our fee structure during an initial consultation.

Q: What's the difference between a senior care manager and a placement agency?

A: Placement agencies typically focus only on finding an assisted living facility, and they are usually paid a referral fee by the facility — which means their recommendations may not be fully objective. A senior care manager like About Senior Solutions works independently on behalf of your family. We provide comprehensive assessments, develop full care plans, and can help with everything from home care to facility selection to ongoing monitoring. Our goal is the best outcome for your loved one, not a placement commission.

Q: We live out of state. Can you help us manage care for a parent who lives in the Los Angeles area?

A: Absolutely. Long-distance family caregiving is one of the most common situations we handle. We serve as the local eyes and ears for families across the country, providing regular updates, attending medical appointments, managing crises, and ensuring your loved one has consistent advocacy and support — even when you can't be there in person.

Q: How quickly can you get started?

A: We typically offer consultations within a few business days. In urgent situations — such as a pending hospital discharge or a crisis requiring immediate action — we prioritize accordingly. Don't wait until there's an emergency to reach out; the more lead time we have, the more thorough and thoughtful our work can be.

July 2026 Newsletter: MELTDOWNS AND MILESTONES

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:05:55 GMT

View our July 2026 Newsletter now.

About Senior Solutions is Moving Boulders

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:41:16 GMT

When my middle child was about nine years old, he was forever asking questions like, "What if that boulder came rolling down onto our car right now?" Or, "What if I squeezed myself into that little box—would you find me?" Or, "What if I could lift that huge log and move it over there?"

My response was usually a little chuckle followed by, "I don't know."

His endless curiosity earned him the affectionate nickname my "What If" boy. But over the years, his questions started sparking a few what ifs of my own.

It's easy to let those thoughts creep in.

What if that figurative boulder comes rolling down?

More importantly... what if I don't plan with the end in mind? What if I don't take care of my health? What if I don't slow down long enough to listen to what truly matters?

When it comes to navigating the complexities of aging, caregiving, and life's unexpected transitions, those what ifs can become heavy. They sit on your chest, keep you awake at night, and tighten every muscle in your body.

Is there a nagging "what if" weighing on you right now?

Maybe the figurative boulder of caregiving, medical decisions, or providing 24/7 support has already landed in your lap. If so, you don't have to carry that weight alone—and you certainly don't have to move those logs by yourself.

Recently, our Director of Operations, Amber, shared an exciting update about a client's remarkable progress. She smiled and said, "You know... we're boulder movers."

She couldn't have said it better.

Every day, we help families move what once seemed impossible. We help shoulder burdens that have become too heavy for one person to carry. Maybe you're carrying one of those giant boulders right now. Your friends can see it. Your coworkers may notice it in your performance. Your children may feel the pull on your time and energy as you care for someone you love.

Whether you're trying to determine the next step for a loved one's care, navigating a difficult transition, or planning ahead so you can breathe a little easier, we're here to help clear the path.

Let's take those overwhelming "what ifs" and turn them into a thoughtful, practical plan—one that replaces uncertainty with confidence and gives you the support you deserve.

Let's Move those boulders together!

Mary, Denise, Amber, Analisa, Laurel, Laura, Cami, Jenna, Debra, John, Ann, Shannon, Evita, Rebecca, and Dr. Guidry

We have streamlined our office directory and have a new phone system. For the fastest and best way to reach us, call our office.

Direct Communication Lines:

Main Office Line: 626-359-0108
After-Hours & Weekend Cell: 626-201-5997

Our In-Office Intake & Operations Team:

Denise Garcia (Client Success Liaison): clientsuccess@aboutseniorsolutions.com
Amber Bolanos (Director of Operations): admin@aboutseniorsolutions.com

SHAPE UP is about much more than exercise—it's a roadmap to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Each letter represents one of seven simple lifestyle habits that can make a powerful difference in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Research continues to show that healthy daily choices can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and other chronic illnesses while increasing happiness, energy, and quality of life. Over the next several issues, we'll take a closer look at each part of the SHAPE UP acronym and share practical, easy-to-apply ideas that can help you build healthier habits one step at a time. Take a moment to review what each letter stands for—and challenge yourself to practice at least one of these life-enhancing habits every day.

Care is Not Just a Checklist

"By being present for the 'small' things,

we ensure we are there for the big ones"

Client Success Story

In our recent work with independent living clients, we witnessed firsthand how trust built through everyday interactions can lead to life-saving outcomes.

The relationship began with simple home maintenance tasks—repairing a broken dishwasher and addressing a few minor electrical issues. While these may have seemed like routine service calls, they established something far more valuable: trust. Because the client felt safe and supported in their own home, our team member was able to recognize when a much more serious health concern emerged.

During a follow-up visit, our team member noticed a severe leg wound that required immediate medical attention. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, they did far more than make a phone call. They stayed by the client's side late into the evening, ensuring a smooth transition to the hospital and advocating for the care the client needed. The following morning, they checked in again, monitored the client's progress, and coordinated the next steps in the recovery process.

This story illustrates the heart of our mission. Independent living is about far more than completing a list of tasks—it's about building relationships that allow us to see what others might miss. By being present for the "small" things, we are prepared to respond when the "big" things arise. In this case, attentiveness, compassion, and steadfast follow-through transformed a potentially life-threatening situation into a path toward recovery.

The Life Enhancement program is designed to provide personalized support and enriching experiences for clients, fostering their engagement and well-being. Through tailored outings and activities, clients are encouraged to reconnect with their passions and interests, aided by dedicated coaches who offer companionship and support. This program aims to enhance the quality of life for clients by facilitating meaningful interactions and memorable experiences.

June Wellness Guide for Seniors: Alzheimer's Awareness, Men's Health Month, and Summer Well-Being Tips

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

June Is Here — and Summer Wellness Starts Now

"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples." — Mother Teresa

June Health Awareness Highlights

Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month — Brain health can be actively supported at every age through physical activity, social engagement, mental stimulation, and quality sleep.
Men's Health Month — Encourage the men in your life to schedule a check-up, talk openly about how they're feeling, and make one positive health change this month.
Healthy Aging Month — Aging well is the result of intentional, daily choices about how we move, eat, rest, connect, and engage with the world.
PTSD Awareness Month — Including among veterans and older adults who may have experienced earlier trauma.
National Safety Month — Fall prevention, medication safety, and home safety assessments are all worth reviewing this month.

Summer Wellness Tips for Seniors

Stay cool and hydrated. Heat affects seniors more severely than younger adults. Drink water throughout the day and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours (10am–4pm).
Protect your skin. Sunscreen, hats, and lightweight sun-protective clothing are essential during summer months.
Keep moving. Morning walks before the heat of the day, swimming, or indoor exercise programs all support physical health.
Maintain your medication routine. Heat can affect how some medications work or are stored. Speak with your pharmacist if you have concerns.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion. Dizziness, heavy sweating, cool or pale skin, nausea, and a fast or weak pulse all warrant immediate attention.

Little Moments That Matter

A quick smile. A fun fact. A meaningful conversation. The Perk Daily was designed to bring small doses of joy, curiosity, and connection to seniors, caregivers, and families — every single day. Because on the days when everything feels heavy, a little lightness goes a long way.

Supporting seniors and families through life's transitions is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you need trusted resources, thoughtful guidance, or simply a caring conversation, we are here — just a call or click away.
888-736-5864 | aboutseniorsolutions.com