Topics in this just-published snailmail newsletter:

• Better Care - Lower Cost - Improved Health! Elder Care Remote Activity Monitoring Technology Pilot
• Want to Participate in One of Our Pilots - Free!
• Caring Companion Awarded Home Care Agency Accreditation
• Optimism Connected to a Stronger Immune System

Download this newsletter here: CCCnewsletterv2.1 (if you would like to receive our next newsletter  by email or snailmail -- or to have it sent to a friend, client or family member -- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the name contact info).

Over the Thanksgiving weekend we received notice that Caring Companion Home Care is among the first home care agencies in the state to earn accreditation from the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts (HCA). The alliance's accreditation protocol promotes quality service, caregiver training and competency, ethical business standards, and superior employment practices in an industry that lacks meaningful licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The accreditation was all the more rewarding because Caring Companion Connections is only the third west of Boston to be accredited among independently-owned, private-pay home care agencies -- i.e., we are not a franchise, and we are not affiliated with a hospital or other large organization. This is a family business.  My dad started in Florida in 1992 at his kitchen table, and now my two sisters and I have independent agencies in our home states. Being recognized within the industry is a point of pride for all of us.  Our recent mention by National Public Radio's Aging in America broadcast series was a big boost; this accreditation is another.

Our metro-west Boston area office is directed by Deborah Bier, PhD -- like me, a long-time Concord resident. We have just expanded with a new Boston office to better serve clients and families in the city.  We are proud to be in the initial group of agencies to promote accreditation standards, all of which are a part of Caring Companion’s commitment to a higher quality of care. These standards help consumers choose agencies worthy of trust, as they come to see the many advantages of keeping people independent in their homes and as part of the community.

Read more ...