Yelp has pulled so many of our postings that I am going to put them here. The next several posts are ones that are on Yelp. This is one of several that Yelp has determined are "not recommended".
My family hired Alta Golden about a year and a half ago to provide care
for my parents in their home for a few hours daily. Both my parents and
us, their 2 sons, are extremely pleased with the choice we made. Our
father is 96, blind, and, has Parkinson's. Our mother is 93, has
fibromyalgia, mild dementia and, is only partially mobile. They were
both fiercely opposed to having anyone in the house to help them.
After considerable prodding by us they finally relented to having help
three to four hours a day. That is when Alta Golden came into the
picture. The owner, Laura Barish, is very caring and knowledgeable. She
has sent two highly qualified people to care for my parents. They shop,
prepare meals and clean up, do laundry and light housework and keep an
extremely careful watch on the medications taken by our parents. They
also take them to all their doctor's appointments and make certain that
our parents follow the doctor's instructions to the letter. Laura,
herself, will drop in and visit our folks to see how they are doing.
Through her, they have found a doctor willing to make house visits,
making their life much easier, as getting out is traumatic for both of
them. They have had a few medical emergencies between them and Laura
accompanied them to the hospital and followed up on them, advocating for
them in the hospital when the doctors seemed slow to respond to their
needs. In another case, the care giver went with them to the hospital
and when back in the house stayed for two evenings to ensure their
safety. All along, my brother and I were informed and consulted with by
Laura and her staff about each step needed. Most importantly, my
parents are very satisfied with the attentive care they are given. All
of us consider ourselves very fortunate for having found this gem.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Problems with Yelp
Greetings all. It's been quite a while since I've written and hopefully my schedule will allow me to share more with you.
Today I want to discuss issues with online media. My note today is about Yelp. I have had a very interesting experience with Yelp lately--they have removed 50% of my five-star ratings. Yelp has an algorithm that automatically scans all listings and it decides which listings should remain and which should be removed from ready view. For AltaGolden this means that we've had multiple 5-star reviews moved into an area called "other reviews that are not currently recommended".
I personally think this is wrong on multiple levels. First, when my appreciative clients have spent the time to go online to post their review, only to have Yelp remove it, it disincentivizes people from posting. Second, it does not allow consumers who are coming to my site to see all of the wonderful reviews that have been posted. And lastly, it does not give an accurate aggregate rating when half of the ratings have been arbitrarily removed.
When I saw this happening I started to investigate Yelp. I learned from other small business owners that their wonderful reviews are also being removed. I then looked at the Better Business Bureau site and learned that Yelp is not an accredited business; they have over 1500 complaints against them; and there are many many complaints listed on the BBB site with exactly the same complaints.
Yelp has had one federal investigation against them for collecting data about minors and there have been two law suits brought about the same advertising practices that I mention above. In addition, they have no rating on the BBB site. I don't understand why this is because you don't need to be an accredited business to have a rating on the BBB. Most businesses listed on the BBB that have the numbers of complaints that Yelp has are given an "F" rating.
So, my request of all business and consumers is to not use Yelp. Don't read their reviews, don't buy their marketing products, don't click to their site until they fix their disreputable business practices. Yelp claims to be an unbiased venue for consumers to post their opinions. The problem is that they cannot truly be unbiased when they are removing reviews; and they do not give businesses the ability to speak with a customer support person when there is a problem. I have their sales staff contact me on a regular basis trying to get me to pay for advertising. They will not, however, let me speak to a live customer service person. When I sent an email to their help line I received back a canned note and no follow up.
Yelp is not a credible business. Please use other sources for the information you are seeking about a business in which you have an interest. In my opinion, Yelp should not be given your consideration.
Today I want to discuss issues with online media. My note today is about Yelp. I have had a very interesting experience with Yelp lately--they have removed 50% of my five-star ratings. Yelp has an algorithm that automatically scans all listings and it decides which listings should remain and which should be removed from ready view. For AltaGolden this means that we've had multiple 5-star reviews moved into an area called "other reviews that are not currently recommended".
I personally think this is wrong on multiple levels. First, when my appreciative clients have spent the time to go online to post their review, only to have Yelp remove it, it disincentivizes people from posting. Second, it does not allow consumers who are coming to my site to see all of the wonderful reviews that have been posted. And lastly, it does not give an accurate aggregate rating when half of the ratings have been arbitrarily removed.
When I saw this happening I started to investigate Yelp. I learned from other small business owners that their wonderful reviews are also being removed. I then looked at the Better Business Bureau site and learned that Yelp is not an accredited business; they have over 1500 complaints against them; and there are many many complaints listed on the BBB site with exactly the same complaints.
Yelp has had one federal investigation against them for collecting data about minors and there have been two law suits brought about the same advertising practices that I mention above. In addition, they have no rating on the BBB site. I don't understand why this is because you don't need to be an accredited business to have a rating on the BBB. Most businesses listed on the BBB that have the numbers of complaints that Yelp has are given an "F" rating.
So, my request of all business and consumers is to not use Yelp. Don't read their reviews, don't buy their marketing products, don't click to their site until they fix their disreputable business practices. Yelp claims to be an unbiased venue for consumers to post their opinions. The problem is that they cannot truly be unbiased when they are removing reviews; and they do not give businesses the ability to speak with a customer support person when there is a problem. I have their sales staff contact me on a regular basis trying to get me to pay for advertising. They will not, however, let me speak to a live customer service person. When I sent an email to their help line I received back a canned note and no follow up.
Yelp is not a credible business. Please use other sources for the information you are seeking about a business in which you have an interest. In my opinion, Yelp should not be given your consideration.
Monday, December 22, 2014
Medicare Enrollment. Mid year changes.
Greetings and happy holidays! I hope you are all having a beautiful holiday season whether you celebrate Kwanzaa, Chanukah, Christmas or another winter holiday.
It's been a very busy year and I have not been online as much as I would like. Busy is good however!
During the Medicare open enrollment I was working with a client to get her enrollment modified so that she would have more flexibility. I was working with a wonderful insurance broker named Peter Palmiotto. Peter presented multiple items and our client selected a plan just right for her. We walked together to our respective cars and in our conversation I learned that there are actually times outside of the Medicare enrollment period when Medicare options may be changed. I asked Peter to write a guest blog about this and here is what he has shared. I hope you enjoy the read!
Blessings,
Laura Barish, AltaGolden
It's been a very busy year and I have not been online as much as I would like. Busy is good however!
During the Medicare open enrollment I was working with a client to get her enrollment modified so that she would have more flexibility. I was working with a wonderful insurance broker named Peter Palmiotto. Peter presented multiple items and our client selected a plan just right for her. We walked together to our respective cars and in our conversation I learned that there are actually times outside of the Medicare enrollment period when Medicare options may be changed. I asked Peter to write a guest blog about this and here is what he has shared. I hope you enjoy the read!
Blessings,
Laura Barish, AltaGolden
How To Change Your Medicare Insurance Year Round
Medicare insurance is a
critical part of most seniors’ healthcare, yet can be extremely confusing and
frustrating when trying to figure out all your Medicare options. Changing a Medicare Advantage (MA) or Prescription
Drug plan (PDP) can be nerve raking and often times can only be changed during
the Annual Open Enrollment Period. Yet
most are not aware they can change their plans year round if the right
conditions are met.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) oversees the Medicare program and allows changes to
be made, regardless of the time of year, during what they call a “Special
Enrollment Period (SEP).” A SEP is a
specific period of time in which you can change, add or drop a Medicare
insurance plan. These SEPs are triggered
by various events in your life that allow you to shop around without any
medical underwriting or lapse in coverage.
There are over 30 different
reasons why you may qualify for a SEP, yet most people typically use one of the
top 6 reasons we’ll discuss here.
1)
Currently Living in a Skilled Nursing Facility: Those
living in a SNF may join or switch plans year round. Those discharged from a
SNF have up to 2 full months after discharge to join or switch plans
2)
Entering Or Leaving a Long Term Care Hospital: Those going into or
coming out of a Long-Term Care Hospital have 2 full months after the admittance
or discharge date to join or switch plans
3)
Moving From A Different County / State: All Medicare
Advantage plans will allow you to join, switch or drop your MA plan within 2
full months of your move. You can only switch your PDP plan within 2 full
months if you moved to a different state as PDP plans are statewide.
4)
Those Receiving Medicare and Medi-CAL: Those that are dual eligible, have both Medicare and
Medi-CAL benefits, may join, switch or drop plans year round.
5)
Low Income Subsidy Recipient: Those that have, or qualify to have a Low Income Subsidy
(LIS) for Part D Prescription Drug Coverage can join or switch plans year
round.
6)
Loss of Employer or Union Coverage: Employer
or Union health insurance coverage ends or is terminated, those affected have 2
full months after the end of prior to coverage in which to join a plan
For
those with a Medicare Supplement Policy, also known as a Medigap plan, you may
change your plan year round in order to help lower your monthly premium. Be
aware that the insurance carrier will put your application through full
underwriting review, and your application may be denied based on your health
history.
California’s “Hidden
Secret” for those with Medicare Supplement Insurance
If you want to lower your monthly
Supplement premium but are hesitant to go through medical underwriting,
California is one of only two states nationwide that allows you to switch plans
without the worry of being denied. This
is called the “Birthday Rule,” in which
you can switch your Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan to another like-kind
plan within 30 days after your birthday without any medical underwriting or
possibility of being denied.
As long as your switch occurs
within 30 days after your birthday, you are guaranteed to be issued a new
policy from any other company offering the same plan. If you currently have a Supplement Plan G,
you can only switch to another company and obtain another Plan G. You can lower your coverage (switch from F to
G), but you cannot increase your coverage (from G to F). This is the best way to shop around each year
to help lower your premium and save money.
For those looking to increase
their benefits, lower their premiums or access different doctor networks, using
a Special Election Period is a great way to switch throughout the year. Of course,
you can always wait until the Annual Enrollment Period each year that occurs
between October 15th and December 7th.
For more information or help
with your Medicare insurance, please contact San Diego Medicare Options at
888-939-7383.
--------------------------------
Peter Palmiotto is the founder
and CEO of San Diego Medicare Options, an independent Medicare insurance
brokerage firm. Peter makes house calls
or can help you over the phone. He is licensed in 5 different states and
currently resides in San Diego. He can
be reached at 888-939-7383 or for more information visit: www.SanDiegoMedicareOptions.com
-------------------------------
A great gift to your parents for starting the new year is the gift of your time--whether it is a phone call, out of town visit, or taking them out to lunch or dinner. I know my mother's favorite gift is being able to have dedicated time with her children and grandchildren.
There is also the great gift of caregiver services (you know I had to get in my AltaGolden plug!). Give us a call if you'd like to discuss if we can help your loved ones in any way. All of our services are customized for each client. Our number is 858-779-9254.
Take care and have a blessed holiday! Laura
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Memory Center Sponsorship
Good morning all. As you may know AltaGolden has an adult day program called the Memory Center. We are starting a new program of sponsorships for those who are unable to afford the cost. Would you like to donate money to assist those who are unable to afford the Menory Center? Do you have a friend or loved one who could use this help?
Please let us know if you can assist. Currently two of our Memory Center clients can only afford to come to the program once or twice a month and even tho we discount their fees it's not enough for them to afford the attendance they desire. Your sponsorship would be greatly valued. Your donation can be anonymous or, with the family's permission, we will give you a bio sheet. Please call if you can help. 858-779-9254
Thank you for considering!
Take care and have great day.
Laura Barish
www.altagolden.com
Please let us know if you can assist. Currently two of our Memory Center clients can only afford to come to the program once or twice a month and even tho we discount their fees it's not enough for them to afford the attendance they desire. Your sponsorship would be greatly valued. Your donation can be anonymous or, with the family's permission, we will give you a bio sheet. Please call if you can help. 858-779-9254
Thank you for considering!
Take care and have great day.
Laura Barish
www.altagolden.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Medicare Enrollment
Good morning everyone. If you have visited our website you will know that we have a Medicare enrollment seminar coming up this Saturday, October 11. Why is this an important seminar to attend? Why should you be concerned about Medicare enrollment?
October 1 of this year was the start of the Medicare enrollment period. Every year there are changes in insurance options and Medicare is no exception. I have spoken with several older adults about the seminar and I'm seeing a distressing trend of people saying, "This is too confusing for me. I'm just going to stay with what I've got because I don't understand the options."
I certainly understand the confusion as Medicare and our country's insurance system in general can make one's head spin. It is important, however, that you look at your insurance plan and ensure that you have the type of coverage that will allow you access to the doctors and healthcare systems that best meet your needs.
For example, HMOs are a great way to make sure that all of your needs are met under the umbrella of a single carrier without having to worry about managing reporting and payments with both Medicare and a supplemental. HMOs have their limitations however. Mobile doctors have become much more prevalent – at least here in San Diego – and I have several clients taking a vantage of this great system. If you are an older adult who finds it difficult to get to the doctor because of a lack of transportation or you are disabled, you probably want to consider Medicare with a supplemental that will cover the cost of mobile doctors. If you are fully mobile and in a healthcare system that you love, an HMO may be a great fit for you.
Are there doctors or specialists you want access to that are not in your HMO? If so, an HMO may not be a good option. There is a lot to consider in making your selection.
Medicare part D is also another potential minefield. Each carrier has its own formulary of what is covered under the low cost option and what is not. Medications that are not covered can get quite pricey. Whenever I am helping a client look at their Medicare part D options I take a list of their medications and check the formularies of the various Medicare part D plans to see who is going to provide the best coverage for the current list of meds.
I asked Rhonda Norton to come talk with us because I know Rhonda to be a wonderful advocate for older adults and their insurance needs. At this seminar she will discuss Medicare and the options (both HMONG and supplemental) available as well as how to determine what is best for you. There will be no sales at this seminar as we really want our community to have the opportunity to learn more about Medicare without worrying about a "sales job".
Seating is limited to 30 attendees so please call us to reserve your spot. Refreshments will be served and you'll have plenty of time to ask questions and socialize with your neighbors.
If you are not able to attend but would like to speak with Rhonda, just give us a call and we'll put you in touch with her. 858-779-9254
Take care and have a wonderful rest of the week.
Laura Barish
www.altagolden.com
October 1 of this year was the start of the Medicare enrollment period. Every year there are changes in insurance options and Medicare is no exception. I have spoken with several older adults about the seminar and I'm seeing a distressing trend of people saying, "This is too confusing for me. I'm just going to stay with what I've got because I don't understand the options."
I certainly understand the confusion as Medicare and our country's insurance system in general can make one's head spin. It is important, however, that you look at your insurance plan and ensure that you have the type of coverage that will allow you access to the doctors and healthcare systems that best meet your needs.
For example, HMOs are a great way to make sure that all of your needs are met under the umbrella of a single carrier without having to worry about managing reporting and payments with both Medicare and a supplemental. HMOs have their limitations however. Mobile doctors have become much more prevalent – at least here in San Diego – and I have several clients taking a vantage of this great system. If you are an older adult who finds it difficult to get to the doctor because of a lack of transportation or you are disabled, you probably want to consider Medicare with a supplemental that will cover the cost of mobile doctors. If you are fully mobile and in a healthcare system that you love, an HMO may be a great fit for you.
Are there doctors or specialists you want access to that are not in your HMO? If so, an HMO may not be a good option. There is a lot to consider in making your selection.
Medicare part D is also another potential minefield. Each carrier has its own formulary of what is covered under the low cost option and what is not. Medications that are not covered can get quite pricey. Whenever I am helping a client look at their Medicare part D options I take a list of their medications and check the formularies of the various Medicare part D plans to see who is going to provide the best coverage for the current list of meds.
I asked Rhonda Norton to come talk with us because I know Rhonda to be a wonderful advocate for older adults and their insurance needs. At this seminar she will discuss Medicare and the options (both HMONG and supplemental) available as well as how to determine what is best for you. There will be no sales at this seminar as we really want our community to have the opportunity to learn more about Medicare without worrying about a "sales job".
Seating is limited to 30 attendees so please call us to reserve your spot. Refreshments will be served and you'll have plenty of time to ask questions and socialize with your neighbors.
If you are not able to attend but would like to speak with Rhonda, just give us a call and we'll put you in touch with her. 858-779-9254
Take care and have a wonderful rest of the week.
Laura Barish
www.altagolden.com
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Exciting New Alzheimer's Research
Greetings all. Today I received a link for an article in Neuroscience News discussing potential reversal of Alzheimer's Disease through a combination of diet, brain stimulation, exercise, optimization of sleep, specific pharmaceuticals and vitamins, and multiple additional steps that affect brain chemistry.
The positive results of this study are not surprising to me as similar results have been experienced by Dr. Terry Wahls in her quest to cure Multiple Sclerosis, a condition she reversed in herself. The article accessible through the following link is worth the read.
http://neurosciencenews.com/alzheimers-memory-loss-reversal-1377/
Have a wonderful and healing day!
Best always!
Laura Barish
Visit us online at www.altagolden.com or call me and AltaGolden's wonderful management staff at 858-779-9254.
The positive results of this study are not surprising to me as similar results have been experienced by Dr. Terry Wahls in her quest to cure Multiple Sclerosis, a condition she reversed in herself. The article accessible through the following link is worth the read.
http://neurosciencenews.com/alzheimers-memory-loss-reversal-1377/
Have a wonderful and healing day!
Best always!
Laura Barish
Visit us online at www.altagolden.com or call me and AltaGolden's wonderful management staff at 858-779-9254.
A little 55+ humor for the day...
Good morning all. We got an email from one of our caregivers and this one actually made me laugh out loud. Enjoy!
SENIORS TEXTING CODE
ATD: At The Doctor's
BFF: Best Friend Fell
BTW: Bring The Wheelchair
BYOT: Bring Your Own Teeth
FWIW: Forgot Where I Was
GGPBL: Gotta Go Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA: Got Heartburn Again
IMHO: Is My Hearing-Aid On
LMDO: Laughing My Dentures Out
OMMR: On My Massage Recliner
OMSG: Oh My! Sorry, Gas
ROFLACGU: Rolling On Floor Laughing And Can't Get Up
TTYL: Talk To You Louder
I hope I haven't offended anyone's sensibilities. Aging isn't for the feint of heart!
Have a wonderful day!
Do you need just a little (or a lot) of help? Give AltaGolden a call. We customize all of our support plans to the individual needs of each client. Call us to chat at 858-779-9254 or visit us online at www.altagolden.com.
Be well and have a joyous and blessed day.
Laura Barish
SENIORS TEXTING CODE
ATD: At The Doctor's
BFF: Best Friend Fell
BTW: Bring The Wheelchair
BYOT: Bring Your Own Teeth
FWIW: Forgot Where I Was
GGPBL: Gotta Go Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA: Got Heartburn Again
IMHO: Is My Hearing-Aid On
LMDO: Laughing My Dentures Out
OMMR: On My Massage Recliner
OMSG: Oh My! Sorry, Gas
ROFLACGU: Rolling On Floor Laughing And Can't Get Up
TTYL: Talk To You Louder
I hope I haven't offended anyone's sensibilities. Aging isn't for the feint of heart!
Have a wonderful day!
Do you need just a little (or a lot) of help? Give AltaGolden a call. We customize all of our support plans to the individual needs of each client. Call us to chat at 858-779-9254 or visit us online at www.altagolden.com.
Be well and have a joyous and blessed day.
Laura Barish
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