Exploring the Benefits of Home Care
Using in-home care to support aging in place is increasing in popularity, and for a good reason. In addition to providing services that older adults may need, it also allows them to keep living in the comfort of their own homes. With this service, you receive most of the benefits of a senior living facility while avoiding the stress of moving and adapting. Keep reading to explore the benefits of in-home care.
Providing Needed Services
As people age, they may need more skilled services like physical therapy, medication management, and help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and transferring. These services, and others like occupational therapy, close monitoring, and wellness checks, support older adults living in their own homes for as long as possible.
The ability to administer these services in the home can prevent or postpone a move to an assisted living or nursing home. Supporting older adults in staying in their beloved home and receiving necessary care and services will help alleviate much mental stress for you and your loved one.
Avoiding the Downsides
Senior living communities are an excellent choice for older adults who desire a more social living environment, want to downsize and not worry about home maintenance, or need support and health care services. For instance, many people enjoy life enrichment activities and special events. Perhaps they are feeling isolated at home and lack the company of friends and family. Or maybe your senior needs frequent monitoring, including during nights and weekends. These are just a few reasons a senior living community may be preferable.
But then there are the downsides to moving their home. We already talked about mental stress in the previous paragraph. But there are more factors to consider. For one, it may be challenging to locate a facility that is close to your family. This can make visiting your loved ones much more complex, resulting in fewer visits and a greater feeling of isolation from family.
Also, you may find that you miss the little things. Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, and birthday celebrations are just a few events at grandparents’ homes across the world. These traditions can be hugely important to families, and leaving those love-filled homes can be a significant change for a family and their customs.
Making the Choice
The benefits of home care are numerous, but it is essential to talk openly with your loved ones about what they need. If there are services they desperately need but are only attained by moving into senior living, it is worth having a conversation. For those initial needs that home health can provide, however, home care services are an excellent option for older adults. If you have a loved one in need of home health care, contact us today and learn what Good Shepherd can provide your family.