Learning about care options for aging loved ones can be challenging, and many families struggle to find out what’s best for them. While some options require significant lifestyle changes, others do not.
For most families, home care is a solution that allows loved ones to stay in their homes and live how they always have. Only your family can decide when home care is called for, and we’ve listed some of its benefits below.
Comfort
The biggest advantage of home care is that loved ones can stay in familiar, comforting places. They’ll sleep in the same bed, use the same bathroom and kitchen, and maintain their daily routine. Living in a familiar place is particularly beneficial for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of progressive dementia.
Customized Care
Instead of following an assisted living facility’s routines and schedules, home care plans are customized to meet your family’s needs. Whether they need a little help or full-time assistance, home care adapts to your loved one—not the other way around.
Quicker Recovery
Studies show that surgical patients recover faster and more completely when they remain at home. When seniors are allowed to recuperate in the comfort and safety at home, they’re less likely to get sick or be readmitted to the hospital.
Individual Attention
Home care arrangements allow your elderly loved one to be the caregiver’s primary focus. It’s their job to keep the senior in your life comfortable and safe, and they’ll meet your relative’s needs because most caregivers only work with one client at a time.
Affordability
Most home care aides accept hourly rates, and there’s a great deal of flexibility where expenses are concerned. For seniors who need part-time help, home care costs are substantially lower than those of residential facilities. Contact your loved one’s insurance provider to see if they may cover the costs of long-term home care.
Reassurance
With home care, you don’t have to worry about senior loved ones who live alone falling or getting hurt during daily activities. Instead, you’ll rest easier knowing they have the help needed to live safely.
Independence
Losing independence is a significant concern for senior citizens and families evaluating care options. A big benefit of home care is that loved ones retain control over most aspects of their lives—keeping their schedules and deciding when to socialize, eat, and sleep. For those who cannot drive, caregivers can help them run errands and attend events.
Companionship
Senior citizens who live by themselves sometimes experience feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can affect their health. Caregivers provide loved ones with the familiar faces, human connections, and friendly conversations they need, all of which positively affect their well-being and health.
Keeping Families Involved
Home care allows families to participate in loved ones’ care plans. With the right partner, you’ll have an open line of communication with caregivers and frequent updates from managers.
Owning Pets
When seniors age in place with home care, they retain ownership of their beloved pets. For the elderly, companion animals ease loneliness, reduce dementia symptoms, and lower the risk of heart disease. With a caregiver’s help, seniors can continue to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership.
Learn How Home Care Can Help Your Family
If you’re considering home care for an older family member who wants to age in place, we are here to answer your questions. Our team has one goal: to support families and help seniors enjoy their lives in familiar surroundings. Request additional information online or call to talk to one of our care specialists.
