For some elderly individuals, moving out of their home and into assisted living or a nursing home is the healthiest and safest choice. For others, it may not be a cut and dried. In fact, in-home care may be the best option.
The In-Home Care Choice
Many seniors prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible and this is a viable option for many when in-home care services are provided. A person’s home provides them with comfort, familiarity and contentment. Even when the individual may not be able to take care of the home as efficiently as before, there is still the desire to remain at home. In-home care takes up the slack and makes it possible for people to stay in their own familiar surroundings as long as possible.
Personal assistance, healthcare and companionship can be provided by in-home care providers. You do not need to leave your home for these services. You do not need to go through the hassle and emotional upheaval of leaving your home for an assisted living community or nursing home. Whatever help you need to make staying in your home possible is provided by in-home care providers.
Happier and Healthier
After a vacation, the first thought most people have when they get home is that they get to sleep in their own bed. There is something special about being home that you tend to appreciate even more after you have been gone a while. This appreciation for home is pronounced in those who have lived in one place for years or decades. The vast majority of seniors – 90% according to one survey – prefer to age in place as long as possible. They would rather stay at home than move into assisted living.
People enjoy their independence even when it may be compromised somewhat. You may not be able to mow the lawn anymore or keep up with all the housework, but still, being home makes you happy. The psychological advantages of aging in place have been studied. People who have had injuries or illnesses seem to have faster recoveries when they are able to return home.
Researchers are finding that staying in your own home can reduce visits to the doctor. There were 25% fewer doctor visits made by those aging in place in one study. Another found that doctor visits were reduced by half for some patients living with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia when these patients lived in their own homes.
You have friends, support systems and routines that you have developed over the years. Moving away from this can be very stressful. Making new friends, adapting to an unfamiliar environment and learning to live on someone else’s routine can be challenging. If there is a way to avoid moving, most people would seek it out. Fortunately for many people, in-home care is an affordable, desirable option.
Life with dementia can be frightening and unpredictable. The advantages of getting in-home care for those with memory problems are obvious. Established routines, familiar surroundings and gentle care make it easier for everyone involved. Dementia and Alzheimer’s patients are also happier when they can remain in their own surroundings. In addition to providing respite for caregivers, in-home care providers can a wide range of care options from very minimal to full-time memory care if needed.
Studies have shown that Alzheimer’s and other dementia patients experience fewer bouts of anxiety and experience less stress when they view their environment positively. When your loved one is able to be surrounded by the things he or she loves and is used to, it helps with their overall wellbeing. In home care can be provided on an hourly basis to full-time depending on what is required.
Services for Memory Care Patients
There are many services provided by in-home care workers. The schedule of services can be custom designed to fit your loved one’s needs. Keep in mind, if you are getting services for a person who has dementia or Alzheimer’s, you will need to check that the care providers have had proper training to work with memory care patients. They must be prepared to handle symptoms presented by the disease.
Persons certified to work with Alzheimer’s or memory care patients have had the education necessary to understand the symptoms of this progressive disease. The ideal care provider in this situation provides person centered care which includes:
- Knowing how to minimize cognitive and behavioral symptoms and outbursts.
- Helping your loved one remain calm and safe.
- Encouraging social interaction and engagement comfortably.
- Monitoring progression of the disease and making adaptations accordingly
- Providing family support and regular updates.
Enjoying Aging in Place
Getting older and losing your ability to do everything that you have always done can be frustrating. When that includes losing the ability to stay in the home you have grown to love, it can be depressing too. Getting in-home care can make a world of difference.
When your loved one has the opportunity to remain at home and age in place safely and comfortably, he or she will be happier and most likely healthier as a result. Getting help with daily chores, personal care, companionship and more is worth the effort for most who choose it.
About Care Home Care provides caring, certified caregivers to families to help their loved one age in place. We believe in supporting a high standard of quality of life and our caregivers are dedicated to giving compassionate assistance and support with excellence and integrity. Contact us for more information about our services and discover how we can help your loved one enjoy life at home.