Figuring out how much assistance an elderly loved one requires can be tricky. Many families turn to in-home care for support. These services can be a huge help for seniors and give family caregivers peace of mind. Let’s break down the basics of home care to assist you in making care decisions for your loved one.
Our Care Advisor Can Answer any Questions You May Have.
What is home care?
Home care is a form of elder care that can be tailored to each individual’s needs and provided wherever they reside. While such services can be supplied in senior living settings like independent and assisted living communities, home care is typically provided in a private residence.
In-home care for the elderly allows aging loved ones to stay in the comfort of their own home or that of a family member for as long as possible. With in-home care, older adults receive the assistance, supervision, and companionship they need to age in place safely and successfully.
What services do in-home caregivers provide?
- Provide personal care, such as bathing, dressing and grooming
- Help with daily activities, such as eating, walking, and toileting
- Provide transportation to appointments and errands
- Prepare meals and snacks
- Monitor health conditions and medication reminders
- Provide companionship and emotional support
- Help with light housekeeping and laundry
- Provide respite care for family caregivers
When Is it time for home care?
The following are signs that a loved one may benefit from at-home help as their needs increase:
- Difficulty performing ADLs on their own
- Noticeable weight loss or poor hygiene, changes in physical appearance
- Changes in behavior such as difficulty sleeping, mood swings, or time management issues.
- Difficulty in performing activities like cooking, shopping, cleaning, and managing finances – known as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).
Caring for someone can take a toll on both your emotional and physical well-being, especially if you are an informal caregiver. Therefore, before making any decision about hiring home care, it is essential to consider your own needs. To avoid burnout, it is crucial to take a proactive approach towards balancing your caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of your life.
Signs of stress and burnout from caring for an aging loved one may include the following:
- Health problems, including headaches, stomachaches, or high blood pressure
- Social withdrawal
- Depression and anxiety
- Extreme fatigue
- Feelings of helplessness, anger, or resentment
- If you find yourself experiencing a loss of interest in hobbies or other activities that you usually enjoy, it may be a sign that you are experiencing caregiver burnout. It’s important to recognize these symptoms and take steps to reduce the burden on yourself. One way to do this is by seeking in-home care services, which can provide you with respite and help you prioritize your own self-care.
Home care is a form of elder care that can be tailored to each individual’s needs and provided wherever they reside. While such services can be supplied in senior living settings like independent and assisted living communities, home care is typically provided in a private residence.
In-home care for the elderly allows aging loved ones to stay in the comfort of their own home or that of a family member for as long as possible. With in-home care, older adults receive the assistance, supervision, and companionship they need to age in place safely and successfully.
How do I talk to a family member about receiving care at home?
As individuals age, they may demonstrate reluctance in acknowledging their evolving capabilities and accepting external assistance, particularly from external sources. The manner in which new care options are presented can significantly influence the receptiveness of senior individuals toward modifications in their care plan. By engaging in preparatory measures for these conversations, individuals can contribute to a smoother and more effective interaction. The following recommendations serve as a valuable guide for discussions related to the long-term care planning process.
- Be respectful.
- Set a common goal.
- Research all care options.
- Include them in the decision.
- Ask about their concerns and identify the what-ifs.
- Make future plans a topic of ongoing discussion.
Certain senior citizens decline in-home care regardless of the tact employed in broaching the topic. When an individual in question possesses mental capacity and retains decision-making abilities, it may be prudent to defer consideration of in-home care until such time as new circumstances necessitate a reevaluation of their care plan.
How do I find home care near me?
Our Care Advisors can simplify your search for in-home care. These experts can help you assess your loved one’s needs, identify financial resources that can cover their care costs. They can also provide Free initial care assessment in your loved one’s home.
