Golden Rule Elder Care offers more than homecare

As the population ages a growing number of companies are being formed to help elders and their caretakers. Golden Rule Eldercare is positioning itself to go beyond the basic home services to be the company that provides further resources for its clients and their children.

 

Owner Caryn Adler most recently has worked in hospice where she developed contacts and a deep understanding of what resources and services are available for elders in Southwest Michigan. When that job came to an end she decided to start her own company, tapping into that knowledge.

 

She also has connected with a Facebook group from Niles that reminded her of her roots and her affection for the community, so when it came time to decide on a location for her business she chose Niles. 

 

Right now, Adler is the only employee of Golden Rule Eldercare, which opened for business in January. But she expects to add employees as the number of clients and their need for services grows.

 

The business has three components: non-medical care provided in the home, consulting services for families seeking the right services for the elder in their life, and consulting work with companies that want to provide elder care services for their employees. 

 

Golden Rule Eldercare will not provide health care though it will be able to help families set up such services. Golden Rule will offer light housekeeping, meal preparation, daily check-in calls, in-home companionship, and pet visits. It can serve as the eyes and ears for family members who do not live close to aging parents or other relatives.

 

Adler also will be available for hospital and nursing home visits for elders whose families are not in the area. She plans caregiver and community workshops and caregiver respite services. "When you care for an elder it is a tough, thankless job," Adler says of family members who are working hard to take care of elderly relatives. "Too many times the caretaker has to choose between taking care of themselves and an elder. When caretakers get a respite, when the caretaker is taken care of it is better for the elder." 

 

Adler's background is as Registered Respiratory Therapist and she has served at both Bronson and Borgess hospitals. She has worked in home care, hospice, and privately, for two elderly couples. She also also became a single foster parent to 23 children over an eight year period. She adopted four with special needs.

 

"I was very close to all four of my grandparents," Adler says. "I think of them when I am providing this service. I care for your loved ones the way I would  want my grandparents to be cared for." 

 

 

• For information on services available round the clock, every day, year round, contact Adler at 269.262.1905.