By Ann Craig-Cinnamon
A Seniors Helping Seniors franchise has opened in the Fishers area and, as the name implies, it’s a concept that has healthy older people helping out other seniors who need non-medical help.
Owner Brad James says the concept is different from other in home senior care in that they hire people who can really associate and understand the people they are taking care of. “As our name dictates, Seniors Helping Seniors, we only bring on board older adults and seniors to help out with older adults and seniors. And that’s a nice thing in the community. First, we’re able to provide jobs for older adults and seniors, so it’s not just volunteer work, working at a Sam’s Club or at Costco. And, secondly, it’s unique because they are able to really understand the needs of older adults and seniors. As opposed to hiring 25-year-olds to take care of 70-year-olds where there’s big age gaps,” he said.
He adds that trust is a big factor in the success of their concept. “When you’re bringing someone in from the same generation as the person they are taking care of, they really develop special bonds and friendships. It’s not just someone coming in and hanging out, they’re truly friends that create lasting bonds and do things together,” said James.
The Corporate Seniors Helping Seniors Franchise was co-founded 15 years ago by Kiran and Philip Yocom. Before coming to the U.S. from India, Kiran Yocom worked for 14 years with Mother Teresa. The business was based on Kiran’s personal mission to care for those who are unable to care for themselves.
Services provided include companionship, light housekeeping, errand running, yard work, doctor appointments, meal preparation, and some skilled care, such as bathing, feeding and mobility assistance. James said they provide anything that keeps someone independent and in their home or apartment for as long as possible outside of actual medical care.
For more information, please visit seniorshelpingseniors.com.
