Is Getting Home Care Assistance The Best Option For Your Aging Loved One?

There is a saying that “Getting’ old ain’t for sissies.” Many times seniors may become forgetful and develop new aches and pains as part of the normal aging process. Because these issues tend to grow worse with time, often there becomes a need for some Home Care assistance.

When someone is caring for an elderly loved one, the primary concern is for their safety and wellbeing. Oftentimes, wondering thoughts such as… Is mom eating enough? Is dad taking his medication correctly? Should mom or dad still be driving? Should my wife be using a walker?

At some point, the conclusion is that an aging loved one needs more help. The first thoughts may be either a nursing home or assisted living facility. Perhaps another idea is moving them in with family. According to AARP research, 90 percent of people age 65 and over would prefer staying in their own home. There is even a name for it – aging in place.

Plus, research has found many benefits of aging in place – in a home that is familiar and comfortable. Aging in place helps slow the advancement of memory loss, provides cost savings, provides independence, and more. And thankfully, aging in place is more possible than ever with Home Care assistance.

Professional caregivers can provide as little or as much help as an elderly loved one needs. Some older adults simply need someone to drive them to the grocery store and doctor’s appointments. While others may need more hands-on care such as help with bathing and dressing.

The benefits of a professional caregiver extend beyond the physical needs of an aging loved one. Here are some examples:

Companionship

Loss of mobility, driving privileges, or a spouse often makes elderly individuals feel isolated and lonely. Research shows that isolation can negatively affect a person’s health, possibly just as much as high blood pressure, smoking, and obesity.

Professional caregivers can provide elderly adults with one-on-one companionship minimizing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Caregivers can sit with a senior over a cup of coffee, go to the movies with them, help them in the garden, and so much more.

Independence

Sometimes it is an oxymoron – accepting just a little bit of care can actually make them more independent then without any Home Care assistance. Small things such as making sure they take their medication and eat well – can go a long way in helping elderly adults feel more confident and independent. This type of care allows them to live safely and comfortably at home and can help improve their outlook and help avoid depression.

Prevent Accidents

Caregivers are trained to recognize signs that may indicate the potential for future issues. They will notice if your loved one loses their appetite, starts forgetting things, seems to lose their balance, etc. Sometimes recognizing even the most subtle clues can help prevent accidents and health complications down the road. This is especially helpful with someone who has trouble remembering things or communicating well.

Trained Home Care providers can help find solutions to these issues – whether that means a visit to the doctor, understanding the potential side effects of medication, or installing safety features in the home.

Peace of Mind

A professional caregiver can provide families peace of mind. Whether a family lives locally or anywhere across the country, it is hard not to worry about aging loved ones. A caregiver can provide personalized, one-on-one care, so you can rest easy knowing they are in good hands.

Affordability

In an ideal world, the cost would not be a factor when it comes to caring for an elderly loved one. However, the truth is many seniors are on fixed incomes, and the cost is a factor for most. In a nursing home with a private room, the national average cost is $7,698 per month; whereas the price of Home Care assistance is considerably less, especially if around the clock care that comes with a facility is not needed.

It is important to understand the difference between “Home Care” and “Home Health Care”. Home Care provides ongoing help with many of the things already mentioned including companionship and assistance with tasks such as eating, grooming, dressing, and bathing (know as activities of daily living). Home Health Care – often covered by private insurance or Medicare – is a medical service provided by licensed providers. These caregivers are highly skilled, specially trained clinicians who provide nursing or therapy services. This service, which must be ordered by a physician, is often intermittent or short term. These two types of care often work in conjunction with each other and both help ensure the comfort and wellbeing of an aging loved one.

If you are not sure what type of service, your loved one needs, please reach out to Hibernian Home Care via our contact us form or by phone at 732-481-1148 to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with our Registered Nurse and Certified Case Manager. During our visit, we try to learn as much as possible about the needs of you, the family, and your aging loved one. Then, we can create a customized plan based on those needs and budget. That plan could include care for just a few hours a day or around-the-clock based on whatever level of care your aging loved one needs. Plus we will suggest other resources and elder care solutions within the community.