How Welcomed Would I Be? (Helena: insurance, home, living)

[janab]

I am seriously thinking of moving to Helena since my daughter and family live there. I have enjoyed the area and the people. What bothers me is that I would be a grandmother not quite over the hill but on my own and needing to be employed. It has been years since i was a physcians' assistant and can't do much physical labor due to an injury which ended so far in 3 back surgeries and two shoulder surgeries. Besides WalMart and Mc D's what is the outlook for an older self reliant honest woman to be hired and make a decent living to not have to live in a squaller?

[meadowlark3]

Suggestion: subscribe to newspapers (or go to their online editions through Chamber of Commerce listings) and see what actual jobs are currently available. Any ideas exchanged on a site like this one (which is great!) will still have to be confirmed by a reality check.....

[GLS]

Originally Posted by janab

I am seriously thinking of moving to Helena since my daughter and family live there. I have enjoyed the area and the people. What bothers me is that I would be a grandmother not quite over the hill but on my own and needing to be employed. It has been years since i was a physcians' assistant and can't do much physical labor due to an injury which ended so far in 3 back surgeries and two shoulder surgeries. Besides WalMart and Mc D's what is the outlook for an older self reliant honest woman to be hired and make a decent living to not have to live in a squaller?

Despite your physical limitations, you appear to have retained your mental acuity, and you certainly have demonstrated a superior intellectual capacity in the past as a physician's assistant. You may need to update your medical knowledge. However, I would check with managed care companies, insurance companies, etc. as to the possibility of serving as a phone line triage Nurse. The company could be based in Salt Lake City, San Francisco, or anywhere and you could still work in Helena.You could do patient education, claims adjudication, etc. and never leave the comfort of your own home. Best of Luck.

[janab]

I've been watching the paper. My daughter wants to put me to work as a nanny. Ha !! I love my grankids, but I want to stay loving them.LOL
I guess I will just have to get my feet wet and hope for the best. Great ideas above. I wonder if a patient advocate is needed? I've done both sides of the insurance work.

[Eaglewoman]

Since Helena is the state capitol with loads of state and federal jobs, getting your foot in the door as a clerk or data entry person might be an option. Is your back considered a disability? If so, the state will give you preference. There are a number of senior care and assisted Living facilities there that may need your help. Ever thought of an Activities Coordinator for seniors? Also, Helena's Food Bank and several other non-profit groups are always looking. You may get your foot in their door by volunteering at first. (I started the first food bank in Montana). Many physician, medical clinics and hospital.
Good Luck!

[janab]

I love your ideas, thank you. I shall print out and keep. Still looking for a home and need to sell this one first.

[jimj]

Originally Posted by janab

I've been watching the paper. My daughter wants to put me to work as a nanny. Ha !! I love my grankids, but I want to stay loving them.LOL
I guess I will just have to get my feet wet and hope for the best. Great ideas above. I wonder if a patient advocate is needed? I've done both sides of the insurance work.

Yes they are I do believe.... Blue Cross, New West Health Care have patient advocates and are located here...