TIME WITH THE BOSS

Ann Bannes

Senior Solutions

Website: www.seniorsolutions-stl.com

Industry: health care – elder care

Education: Two master’s degrees – one in psychology and one in gerontology

Family: A son, two daughters and six grandchildren

What is your mission?

To empower elders and their caregivers through choices and options that foster a vital life.

What was your first job?

I worked at the Famous-Barr in downtown St. Louis doing credit checks on individuals attempting to use their charge cards.

What was your worst job?

I do not remember the company, but it was a secretarial job and no one in the office could talk to anyone during the daytime. It was a very authoritarian, depressing environment and not motivating at all. Everyone working there was unhappy. I managed to stay three months and then I quit – the best thing I did.

What led you to your industry?

A director in the agency where I was working asked me to take over her role as director of the agency’s health center. I felt that it would be a challenge and I would learn a lot and gain experience in health care, which I did, and have been ever thankful for that opportunity. I also discovered my passion for older adults. It seems so many were forgotten and struggled alone to deal with the issues of aging. I felt someone had to be their “voice.”

What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?

We entered into a partnership with an outstanding hospital in our community – St. Luke’s. This opportunity has expanded our outreach to seniors and their family members.

How do you try to differentiate your business from others in your industry?

Since our entire focus is older adults and family caregivers, we have become experts in the field of aging/caregiving without having to spread ourselves too thin. Instead of knowing a little about a lot of things, we are very knowledgeable in the field of aging. We believe this helps us better serve seniors/family members.

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Since our charitable dollars are stretched so thin, it’s really tough having to say no to seniors with little to no financial resources who need help.

What’s the best part?

My staff is an amazing group of dedicated and caring people, and I feel so blessed to have them as my team.

What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs?

I tell young people to find their passion and then find a job that will allow them to use that passion to make a difference in the lives of others while also helping them grow into stronger and more dedicated and caring people. Because we all must work for so many years, it is vital that people have a passion for what they do and make sure it is not “just a job.”

What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?

During my career, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside individuals who trusted in my abilities and gave me opportunities to succeed. Also, being a caregiver for my own mother for over 20 years gave me great insight into the role that family caregivers play and their tremendous value in the field of aging.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spend time with my grandchildren, family and friends and travel to foreign lands.