FrannyCares Recommendations

Introducing Matthew Alexander: A Financial Advisor on a Mission

In a world dominated by corporate success stories, Matthew Alexander’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience and the pursuit of a greater purpose. A former award-winning film editor, Matthew’s career seamlessly transitioned from the highest levels of the entertainment industry to the dynamic landscape of the tech sector. With a decade of experience at companies like Salesforce and Amazon, Matthew now brings his diverse expertise to a new chapter as a Financial Advisor in partnership with Northwestern Mutual.

Hailing from the southside of Chicago, and now living in Los Angeles, Matthew’s life story is one of overcoming adversity. From leaving home before turning 18 to navigating group homes and emergency shelters, he has faced incredible challenges head-on.

And that’s what drew me to Matthew. It was his passion in giving back to the very communities that shaped him. Matthew’s financial advisory practice is rooted in his deep-seated belief in paying forward the support he received from friends and mentors throughout his life. His team is committed to providing triple A-rated service backed by the strength of the largest mutual fund in the country.

Matthew’s focus extends beyond financial success; he is dedicated to assisting healthcare professionals (like us!) in managing and growing our money. With a passion for helping others reach their financial goals, Matthew Alexander brings a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and a genuine desire to empower individuals on their financial journey.

We highly recommend contacting Matthew for a complimentary consultation. Matthew always emphasizes, “Whether you have $20 or $20,000 let’s just sit down and have a conversation.” I will be relying on him to make sure I meet my financial goals and I hope you do too! After all, when was the last time you had a conversation that was focused entirely on you?

Stay Amazing!

~ Franny

Important Note: FrannyCares does not receive any compensation for our recommendations and partnerships.

Book a Meeting with Matthew Today!

Hello Caregivers!

It’s been quite a year (more on that in a later post) and I’m sure we could all use some rest and relaxation. With this busy season upon us, I wanted to remind you to take some time for yourself. Below are 9 great presents to give yourself or the care professional you have in your life!

Cozy Blanket – $45

Compact Hand Sanitizer – $26

A Memoir to Remember – $27

Shower Steamers – $26

Compression Socks – $17

Yeti Tumbler – $30

Coach Airpods Case – $45

Wooden Foot Massager – $32

Trunk Organizer – $13

The Power of Quick Client Fact Sheets

In the world of caregiving, preparedness is the cornerstone of effective and compassionate support for clients. Surprisingly, a FrannyCares survey revealed that 87% of caregivers have felt unprepared for their role. It’s not a lack of skill or knowledge that’s the issue – it’s about providing the right tools for success. Fortunately, employers can employ a simple yet impactful tactic to ensure caregivers feel ready and capable.

Quick client fact sheets condense vital information into a concise and accessible format. They act as a bridge between employers, caregivers, and clients, ensuring that caregivers are well-informed before they start working with a new client. These fact sheets should include:

1. Basic Information: Client name, age, gender, and contact information.

2. Medical History: Existing medical conditions, allergies, medications, and any ongoing treatments.

3. Daily Routine: Insights into the client’s daily activities, routines, and preferences.

4. Special Requirements: Any specific needs or accommodations the client may have.

5. Emergency Contacts: Contact details of family members or friends to reach out to in case of emergencies.

6. Communication Tips: Guidance on how to effectively communicate with the client, considering their preferences and potential challenges.

7. Likes and Dislikes: Information about the client’s hobbies, interests, and personal preferences.

8. Conversation Prompts: Topics to promote engagement and socialization of the client

Creating these sheets is best left to the client or their family. This empowers them to provide critical information while lightening the load on your staff. And remember the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? Encourage families to share client photos – it’s a way for caregivers to connect on a human level.

In the caregiving journey, knowledge truly is power! With these fact sheets, caregivers can approach their roles with confidence, compassion, and the readiness to make a real difference.

Here is a sample fact sheet for employers to use:

Client/Resident/Patient Name	John Smith
Age	78 years old
Medical History	John has osteoarthritis and high blood pressure, some short-term memory loss, hearing loss on right side
Daily Routine	John is an early riser7-8am – John gets up and starts the day reading the newspaper and drinks coffee, takes morning medications8-10am – Eat a light breakfast and walk on treadmill10am-12pm – Watch news and eat lunch12-2pm – Post nap lunch2-4pm – Work in garden, walk on treadmill, play boardgames, card games or chess4-6pm – Prepare dinner, talk to friends or family6-8pm – Take nighttime medications, shower, read books
Special Requirements	Low sodium diet, uses lidocaine patches for pain (right lower back)
Emergency Contacts	Lisa Smith (daughter) – (123) 456-7891Christine Smith (daughter) (123) 454-1234
Communication Tips	John is hard of hearing in his right ear, speak loudly and clearly on his left sideHe does not like to speak a lot, but he does love listening to storiesPlease do not bring up politics
Likes and Dislikes	Likes:Playing gamesNatureTalking about his time in the serviceTalking about his daughters and late wife, JuneTending to his gardenHearing about your storyDislikes:Being coddledThings being messyBrussel sprouts
Conversation Prompts	Ask open-ended questions:Tell me about your time in the army.How old are your daughters? What were they like growing up?When did you learn to play chess? What do you like most about it?Tell me about your wife June. How long did you two date before you asked her to marry you?

Maintaining flexibility and mobility in our backs and legs is crucial for our overall well-being and preventing injury. Let’s explore five simple yet effective stretches that can be incorporated into your daily routine. These stretches target key muscle groups to promote flexibility and relieve tension.

Cat-Cow Stretch -Targets the spine and back muscles

Start on all fours with your hands directly under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
Inhale and arch your back, lifting your chest and tailbone while looking up (Cow position).
Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin towards your chest (Cat position).
Repeat this sequence for 5-10 breaths, gradually increasing the range of motion as you go.

Forward Fold – Targets the hamstrings, lower back and calf muscles

Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and slightly bend your knees.
Slowly bend forward from the hips, allowing your upper body to hang loosely.
Let your arms dangle towards the floor or grab onto opposite elbows for a deeper stretch.
Hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute, focusing on relaxing the back of your legs and lengthening your spine.

Figure-Four Stretch – Targets the glutes and hips

Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Cross your right ankle over your left knee, creating a figure-four shape.
Gently bring your left knee towards your chest, feeling a stretch in your right glute and hip.
Hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute, then switch sides and repeat.

Standing Quad Stretch – Targets the front of your thighs and hips

Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
Bend your right knee and reach back with your right hand to grab your right ankle or foot.
Gently pull your foot towards your glutes, feeling a stretch in the front of your thigh.
Maintain good posture, keeping your knees close together.
Hold this stretch for 30 seconds to a minute, then switch sides and repeat.

Child’s Pose – Targets the hips, back and thighs

Start on all fours, then sit your hips back towards your heels.
Extend your arms forward, allowing your forehead to rest on the mat or a cushion.
Keep your knees together or spread them slightly for a deeper stretch.
Breathe deeply and sink into the pose, feeling a gentle stretch in your lower back and hips.
Hold this position for 1-2 minutes, focusing on relaxing and releasing tension.

Incorporating these five easy stretches into your daily routine can do wonders for your back and leg flexibility. Remember to perform each stretch gently and listen to your body’s signals. If you experience any pain or discomfort, modify the stretch or consult a healthcare professional. I practice yoga and it’s important to remember to stretch to the point of sensation, not pain. Happy stretching and remember to breathe!

~Franny

Hello Caregivers!

The holiday season is upon us and I’m sure we could all already use a break! Below is the first ever FrannyCares Gift Guide. All gifts are under $50 and hand picked to bring rest and relaxation. Get these gifts for someone you love or for yourself! Self-care is care after all.

TheraCane Handheld Massager gift recommendation — TheraCane Handheld Massager – $40

Essential oil diffuser FrannyCares gift recommendation — Wanlola Essential Oil Diffuser – $38

One Line a Day Journal FrannyCares gift recomendation — One Line a Day Journal – $17

Cashmere sweater FrannyCares gift recommendation — One Quince Cashmere Sweater – $50

Target gift card FrannyCares gift recommendation — Target Gift Card – $5-$500

Sheet Mask FrannyCares gift recommendation — Dr. Jart Sheet Mask Set – $23

Movie popcorn kit FrannyCares gift recommendation — Movie Popcorn Kit – $17

Ouai Body Creme FrannyCares gift recommendation — Ouai Body Creme – $38

Fleece slippers FrannyCares gift recommendation — L.L.Bean Fleece Slippers – $50

Silk turban FrannyCares gift recommendation — 100% Silk Turban from Etsy – $48

Looking for more options? Check out our recommendations on minimalist jewelry.

Stay Amazing! And Happy Holidays!

~Franny

Hello Caregivers!

A restful sleep is so important for your mental and physical health. That’s why when you accept a night shift, it may be hard on your mind and body if you are used to working during daylight hours. Below are a few tips to help you adjust to an upcoming night shift schedule.

It is almost impossible to get ready for the night shift in just a couple of days. If you have the time, it’s best to train your body and mind for a few weeks to acclimate to the change.

Create a perfect space for sleeping during the day by mimicking night. This may include using blackout curtains, a sleep mask and possibly ear plugs to minimize any distractions to your sleep. Also keep the room cool and tell people in your household to be as quiet as possible while you rest. It’s not easy to reset your body’s natural circadian rhythm!

On your night shift, it can be tempting to consume foods or beverages with sugar or caffeine for a much needed jolt. But these can offset all the hard work you have put into training your body’s clock. Opt for healthier alternatives such as berries, nuts, yogurt and lots of water. For a quick pick-me-up try a brisk walk, a cold compress to your face and neck or do some jumping jacks. Anything to get your mind and body moving again!

My favorite sleep mask and ear plugs I personally use:

Stay Amazing!

~ Franny