Caregiving service gives at-risk seniors new route

For Sun City resident Margery Thomas, failing a driving test about a year and a half ago meant giving up her ability to drive.

That was a tough pill to swallow, at first.

"You give up your independence and I didn’t want to do that," Thomas, 89, said.

But with the help of her caregiver, Leticia Sanchez, who works for Senior Helpers, a companion and caregiving service with offices across the country, including one in Sun City, Thomas has become accustomed to riding in the passenger seat.

"It doesn’t bother me. I don’t mind at all," Thomas said. "She’s like my right hand."

Thomas said she knew it was safer to use the services of a caregiver for her errands and shopping and now enjoys the time she has with Sanchez.

For Sanchez, who often works in Sun City, her travels include more than one experience with senior drivers who should not be driving.

"I’ve seen close-to accidents from the elderly ... that shouldn’t be on the road. When it comes to safety, it’s better safe than sorry," she said. "When you get to later stages of their lives you don’t know when senior moments are going to pop up."

Her job allows her to help out where it is needed.

"I think it gives them a peace of mind," she said "There’s a lot of stress in their lives because of all the changes and if they have a good caregiver, it gives them peace."

Senior Helpers President Jim Podzius knew the senior population in the Northwest Valley would benefit from the more than 50 caregivers he has employed — especially seniors who were no longer able to get behind the wheel — when he started the franchise in Sun City about three years ago.

"Though doctor’s visits are a part of our routine ... I also get lots of requests for one-time service. If I can do it, I gladly match up a senior’s need with my eager bunch of experienced caregivers," he said. "I am one of the only companies that will take a one-time only, two-hour engagement with a senior for the purpose of visiting their doctor or another appointment."

Peter Ross, CEO of Senior Helpers, said a company like his helps seniors and their families transition into later stages of life.

"Children must reassure their elderly parents they can still see friends and be involved in activities even if they can’t drive," Ross said. "Hiring a caregiver who can be a driver eases some of the conflict in the decision to take away the keys because it preserves the senior’s independence and provides a companion at the same time."

For Thomas, the caregiving and transportation service provided by Sanchez is something she would advocate.

"I couldn’t make it if I didn’t have her," she said.

For information about Senior Helpers, visit www.seniorhelpers.com or call 623-933-1560.