17 ways I will free you from worry and dramatically improve your or your loved-one's life!
What I can do for you
health advocate
Attending doctor appointments can often be stressful. My aim is to simplify this process by providing transportation, facilitating communication with medical professionals, documenting important information, ensuring your tasks are completed, researching potential healthcare providers, managing medications, and navigating the intricate healthcare system. And if you haven't filled out your advance directives yet, don't worry - we can tackle it together!
dementia care
Companionship for elders with dementia is a lifeline to a world of comfort and connection. Social connectivity offers emotional support, a reassuring presence, and a sense of belonging, all of which can reduce feelings of confusion and anxiety.
companionship
Getting older doesn’t have to be such a lonely affair.
The number one characteristic of successful aging is social engagement. Research reveals the many benefits of spending quality time with individuals, including improved mental health, cognition, and energy. When individuals spend time with me, they get all of the aforementioned and the fun hasn't even started yet!
museum visits
Museum outings are more than just eye candy – they're like a thrilling adventure for your brain, a cultural carnival, and a social soiree all rolled into one! According to the Mayo Clinic, experiencing that sense of awe at a museum isn't just fun; it also has the power to reduce inflammation, chill out your stress, and give your heart a high-five in terms of rate and blood pressure. Now, that's a prescription for a great day out!
lunch
An extraordinary lunch experience awaits, whether at a charming deli, a bustling food truck, or a trendy restaurant. It's the perfect setting to share dreams and secrets, where laughter flows freely between friends. Studies show that eating alone is a risk factor for mental decline.
life review
There is nothing more profound than retelling impactful life stories that have shaped who we are. Documentation of these experiences not only keeps the family history alive but is also an opportunity for healing, closure, and self-expression.
drive along the ocean
Windows down, the cool breeze brushing up against your skin
Aging may come with its challenges, but I've discovered countless ways to add joy to the journey. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through a scenic park, a picturesque drive along the PCH, or simply sitting down with a pot of tea to reminisce about the good old days, sharing quality time together is like a little extra ray of sunshine on the path of aging. It just makes the day that much brighter.
motion is lotion!
Exercise is not just crucial for strength and flexibility; it's also a proven stress-buster and mood-lifter. So, why not add some fun to your day and make both your body and mind smile with a good workout? Studies show that it reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, making it a fun and effective way to boost both physical and mental well-being.
Aging with dignity is hard. I’m here to make it easier.
Having witnessed the profound impact of my personalized care on countless clients, I can wholeheartedly affirm that once I take on the role of advocate, you or your loved-one will experience a multitude of meaningful enhancements.
My mission
I recognize that keeping
you or your loved one safe, happy, and engaged is an enormous responsibility
and can be consuming and, at times, overwhelming.
I am dedicated to providing individuals with a unique blend of compassionate companionship and activities rooted in science-based research concepts. From personal experience, I can tell you this one-on-one approach is exponentially more impactful than any medicine out there. Not only does it give individuals a sense of joy, but they also feel valued and experience a renewed sense of purpose. You can't put a price on that.
Since every client has different needs, I customized the plan according to the individual's passions. This plan will also address the physical, psychological, and social needs of the individual, with the ultimate goal of elevating quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What primary services do you offer?
I specialize in several key areas to ensure my clients' well-being and quality of life. Fall prevention is a top priority, as safety is paramount for older individuals.
Additionally, I'm passionate about maximizing the enjoyment and stimulation in my clients' lives. This involves planning and engaging in activities that bring joy, laughter, and a sense of purpose. The Mayo Clinic shares the many health benefits of experiencing AWE. I aim to put the awe every outing every chance I get.
Furthermore, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. Whether promoting physical health, providing companionship, or addressing specific concerns, I'm committed to delivering personalized care that elevates the overall quality of life for older individuals under my care.
How do you customize your work?
Recognizing that each client has unique needs, I offer a tailored and comprehensive wellness-care plan to address your loved one's physical, psychological, environmental, and social requirements. The ultimate aim is to enhance their joy through meaningful one-on-one connections. Your loved one's well-being is my top priority.
What is your education?
I have a BA in History from UCLA a master's degree in Gerontology from USC. Currently, I am pursuing a doctorate in Gerontology at Concordia University Chicago. Additionally, I am certified in Fall Prevention, home modification, and dementia care.
Are you insured?
Elder Advocacy West LA is insured and background-checked.
Testimonials
What my clients are saying ...
We live out of town and being so far away, we had a difficult time looking after my mom. Fortunately, we found Vikki and from that moment on our minds were at ease. She did many things for my mom, including, taking her to doctors' appointments, making sure she was looked after throughout her hip surgery, and making sure her fridge and belly were full. Vikki relayed all updated reports on my mother's surgery, her recovery, and even her emotional state. Although Vikki is terrific at meeting a patient's and family's needs, I think her best asset is the joy she brought to my mom. My mother wished the visits would never have come to an end! Vikki is reliable, loving, thorough, and extremely competent. Anyone would be fortunate to have Vikki as their health care advocate.
Vikki spent hours each week with my father in his final years. The intelligence, humor and compassion she shared gave him more quality time than my siblings and I could provide. Her arrivals kept him in good spirits, always put a smile on his face, truly every minute they had together made our family life better. Vikki has tremendous business acumen. Having a pair of eyes to look over other staff and services involved in his care-taking gave us more financial and emotional reassurances than I can count. She has an academic and practical understanding of issues related to aging that allow her to identify and help solve little problems before they turn into big, urgent crises. She can look out for your best interests like nobody else.
Finding Vikki was a blessing for our family. Her positive spirit, patience and understanding are such a bonus to her knowledge in eldercare. My father in law loves when he and Vikki go out on outings and we have complete trust in her. In our circumstance, my 91 year old father in law is for the most part doing very well health wise, but what really differentiates his days are when he's interacting with people and when he's not. I work at home and am not available most of the time to spend the day with him. Vikki provides, at the minimum, another source of social connection that is so important for his mental health. The mind is powerful and a bad mood can be just as affecting as a good mood for him and all of us in the home. I highly recommend Vikki, and once you spend time with her, you will also!
Vikki at EAWLA has been an absolute godsend for our family. She effortlessly blends her unwavering positivity with patience and a deep understanding of our father's unique needs. She consistently engages him in stimulating activities, fostering a sense of purpose and motivation that radiates through every interaction. She empowers him to make choices, actively involves him in decision-making, and provides unwavering support that promotes his overall health and happiness. Our family's experience with EAWLA has been nothing short of remarkable, and we are deeply grateful for the customized care.
Vikki Smyth is a highly energetic aging specialist who intuitively considers the social, physical, and emotional needs of older adults in helping plan their health and community care. I wholeheartedly trust Vikki and can call on her for any family concern.
We are grateful to Vikki at EAWLA for the fact she came in and assessed that we had several fall hazards in our home. We fixed everything immediately and felt empowered, knowing that one fall could be the beginning of the end. That said, we are hyper-vigilant with every step we take and where we place things we could potentially trip over. Thank you, Vikki!
Vikki at Elder Advocate West LA gives me peace of mind, knowing that my mom is well looked after and having a ball. She always comes home happy and so energetic. And the bonus? The break gives me respite!
Discovering Vikki has been a true blessing for our family. She possesses a positive spirit, tremendous patience, and a deep understanding of our father's needs. Witnessing her engage with him has been an added bonus to her extensive knowledge of eldercare.
I have personally observed the enduring connection that Vikki has maintained with my mother over the years. Their bond remains exceptionally strong to this day. As my mother approaches her 89th birthday, whenever Vikki comes to town, one of her top priorities is to ensure my mother's health and well-being. My mother eagerly anticipates each visit from Vikki, as these encounters leave her with a radiant smile and a heart full of joy. Vikki has consistently cherished, nurtured, and respected this relationship over the years, and I am confident that she dedicates the same level of positive energy to all of her clients.