In the South Chandler and Sun Lakes area, caring for one another isn’t just a value, it’s a way of life. Since 1994, Neighbors Who Care has been the heart of that effort, helping older adults live safely and independently at home through a powerful network of volunteers.
Their “neighbor helping neighbor” model is beautifully simple—and deeply effective. As the owner of Homewatch CareGivers of Chandler – Sun Lakes and a proud sponsor of Neighbors Who Care, I’ve seen firsthand how this approach helps aging adults thrive at home with dignity and pride.
But sometimes, the village needs a little backup.
When Care Needs Begin to Shift
Volunteers and family members are often the first to notice when something’s changed: a loved one seems more confused, becomes unsteady, lets mail pile up, or has expired food in the fridge. They may withdraw socially, or their spouse—who has been quietly caregiving full-time—may begin to show signs of burnout.
These are natural, expected transitions that don’t mean failure. They simply mean the care plan may need to evolve. That’s where professional caregiving comes in—not to replace volunteers, but to complement their support with expanded hours, consistent care, hands-on help, and specialized expertise.
Importantly, caregiving isn’t only for times of illness. It’s also about supporting a better quality of life—helping with everyday tasks that conserve energy, reduce risks, and allow seniors (and their family caregivers) to focus on what matters most. Whether helping someone recover after hospitalization, managing a chronic condition, or simply providing extra support with daily activities, professional caregivers can preserve independence and strengthen family relationships—allowing loved ones to spend more meaningful time together.
Professional Caregivers, Families, and Volunteers: A True Partnership
In-home caregivers are trained to assist with tasks that fall outside the scope of volunteer services, including:
- Personal hygiene and bathing
- Dementia-related care
- Mobility support and fall prevention
- Post-hospitalization care
- Medication reminders
- Companionship for those who require more frequent check-ins
When families, volunteers, and professionals work together, we create a circle of care that adapts to the changing needs of the individual.
Specialized Support for Memory Care
Arizona has the fastest-growing rates of Alzheimer’s disease diagnoses in the nation. Many of our neighbors in Sun Lakes live with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. That’s why dementia care is a cornerstone of our mission at Homewatch CareGivers of Chandler – Sun Lakes.
We’re proud to offer support for those living with dementia in several ways:
- Memory Lane Games, a digital therapeutic tool that sparks joyful, meaningful engagement.
- Active participation in the Dementia Friendly Sun Lakes Task Force to create a more supportive community.
- Volunteer support at the Sun Lakes Memory Café, offering connection and respite for caregivers and those living with memory loss.
- Ongoing caregiver education through our Certified Dementia Care Specialist Training, developed by national dementia experts Nicole Brackett and Dr. Allen Power.
This specialized training moves beyond a clinical view of dementia. It equips caregivers to:
- Apply person-directed communication techniques
- Support well-being and dignity
- Decode signs of distress and respond with empathy
- Create safer, more empowering home environments
At Homewatch CareGivers, we believe that every individual deserves not just care—but understanding, respect, and a meaningful life at every stage of aging.
Final Thoughts
Neighbors Who Care has built something truly special: a deeply connected community where older adults can age with dignity, purpose, and pride. When the time comes for a little more help, the professional caregivers at Homewatch CareGivers of Chandler – Sun Lakes are here to complement that mission—with consistency, expertise, and heart.
In this community, we believe no one should have to walk the aging journey alone. We are proud to support Neighbors Who Care’s mission and help make aging in place safer, more connected, and more joyful.
Courtney Harper
Owner
Homewatch CareGivers of Chandler – Sun Lakes
www.hwcg.com/chandler-sunlakes
charper@hwcg.com
480-680-8808 (call or text)