The aging process almost always eventually takes a heavy toll on a person, making it more and more difficult to maintain the independence of completing daily tasks on one’s own.
According to the Home Care Association of America, “Nearly 70% of Americans who reach the age of 65 will be unable to care for themselves at some point without assistance.” For some, this means moving into an assisted living facility or a nursing home, but for many others, “aging in place” at home is a much more appealing aim that may be accomplished with the support of senior home care.
But what exactly is senior home care (also known as elderly home care) and how will you know if it’s the right choice for you or a loved one?
The Two Types of Senior Home Care
Well, elder home care can be put into two broad categories, both based on the primary purpose of staying at home. One of them concerns matters of personal care, and involves the help of a homemaker of sorts— someone who does light housekeeping, runs errands or would assist a senior in doing their errands.
The second major type of treatment revolves around the services of a licensed professional and a physician’s order, i.e., a more traditional home health care that involves a registered nurse or a physical therapist. Personal care assistance may also be provided in coordination with and under the supervision of a registered nurse as part of a plan devised by a physician or other licensed provider.
What services do senior home care firms provide?
The number of options provided by senior home care organizations is close to limitless, but it is frequently determined by the family budget. The following services may be provided to seniors receiving in-home care:
- Wound dressing, IV therapy, health monitoring, pain control, and other nursing duties
- Physical, occupational, or speech therapy in the comfort of your own home
- In-home doctor visits or telemedicine check-ups via phone or video conferencing
- Counseling and locating community support and other resources
- Medication administration or reminders
- Cleaning and laundry services (and other light housekeeping duties)
- Meal preparation or delivery, as well as dietary monitoring
- Eating assistance
- Personal services such as bathing, dressing, and walking help
- Help with shopping and other errands
- Social interaction and companionship
- Transportation
- Volunteer service ranges from simple companionship to transportation, personal care, emotional support, and more specialist skills like assistance with paperwork or other needs.
