For many families, caring for an aging loved one involves much more than finding someone to help with daily tasks. There are errands to run, household problems to solve, transportation to coordinate and, perhaps most importantly, a person who still wants to get out and enjoy life.
That’s where Steve Lamantini comes in.
The founder of Lion’s Share Family Services, Steve provides what he calls “concierge-based companion care,” offering personalized assistance designed to help older adults maintain their independence while supporting families. His clients have affectionately dubbed him “the Professional Son” because his role extends well beyond traditional companion care.
A retired police officer, Lamantini’s approach grew from his experience caring for his own aging father. While traditional personal care services were available, he saw a need for someone who could address the practical challenges that arise in everyday life. That experience inspired him to establish Lion’s Share Family Services in 2018.
He frequently meets families who are unsure how to help an aging parent and have never discussed plans for the future. His role, he says, is often to help them identify the challenges, consider their options and develop a practical plan.
His services range from transportation and errands to appointments, household assistance, travel and community activities. He may take a client grocery shopping or to a doctor’s appointment, help resolve a household problem, or coordinate the details of a trip.
Travel has become an increasingly popular part of his work. This summer, Steve accompanied a 102-year-old client to Minnesota so she could visit family and participate in family events. Her family’s reaction reinforced why he started the business.
“They kept saying none of this would be happening without my help. The reaction from the family she was visiting, combined with her traveling and participating in family events is extremely rewarding for me and reinforces my reason for starting this business and my drive to continue with similar challenges. The family was just so grateful that my client was there."
He also helps families navigate complicated situations that require planning. For one recent client with dementia, he worked with the family to prepare for an out-of-country wedding. Together, they identified issues involving travel, pre-event schedules and wedding-day preparation to help minimize confusion and address safety concerns while allowing the family to participate in the celebration.
His work also can involve helping clients through major life transitions. After a recent client suffered a stroke, Steve helped him downsize, prepare his home for sale and navigate the process of moving. With no close family or friends available to assist, the client has relied on Steve to help identify contractors, find a real estate agent and work through decisions about his future care.
Helping clients remain connected to the activities that give their lives meaning is another important part of his work. Outings may include church, fairs, school events, lunches, exercise classes or other community activities.
That philosophy is particularly relevant in his work with people experiencing dementia. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Steve looks for ways to preserve experiences clients enjoy, adapting activities when necessary rather than focusing solely on what they can no longer do.
“Socialization is one of the most important aspects of care,” he says. “My specialty is figuring out what they enjoy or used to enjoy and making that part of their lives again.”
For more information call 860-836-6531 or email stevelsfs@gmail.com.