alana j.

I have been a senior companion for over 10 years. When I work with seniors, I take it very personal to see them satisfied and happy. I tune in with their personalities and preferences, and adjust our activities according to what they enjoy, what empowers them and what keeps their emotional, mental and health condition as good as possible. I am flexible, and adjust easily to what my clients need. I become their best friend and feel like a family. We have fun, stay safe and healthy. Caring for an elder person is a very personal business and their quality of life and health depend on it. I saved lives, made lives better and always have my client's best in heart. My career as a senior companion happened very naturally and holistically. It didn't start as a career but as a neighbor helping neighbor and friend helping friend. Helping "straight from my heart", with my natural tendency to be there for people in need, became a profession as a natural progression of what I love to do and what I am good at. So far all my clients have been very happy with my service and I am looking forward to helping you.

I try to stay positive & upbeat with my patients; it is hard being an isolated senior in our busy society., especially during Covid lockdown. With some I have been able to take them out for lunch, to a park or museum. I just spent 10 days looking after my 96 year old mother in Michigan so my two sister's could travel. I work well with Hospice staff, PT & OT. I am a good cook & like to shop and prepare healthy, good tasting meals, maintain a clean house!I am dependable! I started Caregiving in 2012, after completing my BA in Liberal Studies emphasis Psychology at Antioch University in Santa Barbara. I also have an AS in Art & Graphic Communication. I have also been an artist for many years. It doesn't always cover the bills, but I still do it because I love art. While at Antioch U, I strongly considered going on to attain a Master's in Art Therapy but by the time I graduated I had developed type II Diabetes. I received college credit for implementing & facilitating art at several day programs in Santa Barbara county. I moved down to San Diego to be closer to my son's in the Irvine & Buena Park area. I took a live in care job in San Diego and really love this beautiful area! When I first moved to Santa Barbara in 1973 I was employed as a nurse's aide at several hospitals and care facilities. I enjoy working with seniors. I am proud of raising my two sons into fine young men. I have been on a number of mission trips to serve in Mexico, Costa Rica and Uganda. I have a strong faith in God.