As our loved ones age, it’s natural to worry about their well-being and safety. One of the biggest decisions families face is whether to move their aging relatives into a nursing home or assisted living facility, or to opt for at home care for seniors. While nursing homes and assisted living facilities have their advantages, many families find that in-home care is the best option for their loved ones. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of home care for aging adults.
1. Increased Independence and Comfort
One of the biggest benefits of in-home care is that it allows aging adults to maintain their independence and stay in their own homes. Providing this sense of independence is especially important for those who are not comfortable with the idea of moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility.
In-home care allows seniors to receive the care they need while continuing to live in the familiar surroundings of their own home.
2. Relieves Family Caregivers
Caring for aging parents can be both draining for a family caregiver, taking a toll on their health and well-being.
With the support of in-home care, family caregivers are provided much-needed respite and can take time to focus on themselves.
In-home caregivers can provide various types of home health care services, from personal care to housekeeping to transportation, allowing family members to step back and recharge.
3. Saves Money
In-home care is a more desirable choice from a cost perspective. Moving your aging loved one into a nursing home or assisted living facility can be costly, and in-home care can be a more cost-effective option.1 With at-home care, there are no up-front costs associated with buying or renting a nursing home room or assisted living apartment.
4. Reduces Feelings of Isolation
One of the signs of deterioration in elderly parents is loneliness, especially if they live alone or are unable to get out of the house as often as they’d like.2 In-home care can help reduce these feelings of isolation by providing seniors with regular companionship and social interaction. Caregivers can engage in conversation, play games or do puzzles, or simply spend time with their clients, providing much-needed human connection.
5. Prevents Falls and Injuries
Falls and injuries are a major concern for aging adults, especially those with mobility issues or health conditions that make them more prone to accidents. In-home care can help prevent falls and injuries by providing assistance with mobility, such as help getting in and out of bed or walking around the house. Caregivers can also help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, which can be challenging for seniors with mobility issues.
6. Personalizes Care
In-home care allows for personalized care that can be tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences. Caregivers can work closely with clients and their families to create a customized care plan that meets their specific needs, from medication management to meal preparation to transportation. This personalized approach can help seniors feel more comfortable and secure, knowing that their care is being tailored to their individual needs.
7. Flexibility
Not all aging adults need the same amount of care. Depending on the senior’s needs, caregivers may work part-time or full-time.
For example, an older adult who needs assistance with walking or bathing may require more full-time care than someone who needs help running errands.
8. Reduced Risk of Infections
In-home care reduces the risk of infections that can occur in assisted living facilities or hospitals.3 Seniors who receive in-home care are less likely to be exposed to illnesses and infections, which can help them maintain their health.
9. Peace of Mind
Families can be confident that their loved one is getting the proper care and assistance, and seniors can feel secure knowing that their caregiver is someone they can rely on.
10. Better Mental Health
Numerous studies have discovered that an elderly person’s psychological well-being is significantly impacted by the place they call home; whether it be the comfort of their own home with the aid of family, or a senior living facility.
Seniors who got home care services indicated greater contentment, pleasure, and an enhanced standard of life than those in assisted living situations, according to research published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology.
Discover Quality In-Home Care
In-home care services offer many benefits for aging adults and their families. From providing independence and comfort to reducing feelings of isolation and preventing falls and injuries, in-home care can be a cost-effective and personalized alternative to nursing homes or assisted living facilities. If you’re considering in-home care for your aging loved one, we can help.
At A First Name Basis, we understand that there are several reputable providers who offer in-home care services. It is important that you do your research and find a provider who can offer the services you and your loved ones need. If you are looking for a place to start, our in-home services may be perfect for you!
Discover the services we offer to keep your loved one happy and healthy at home.
Sources:
- National Association of Home Care & Hospice. Home Care Saves Lives and Money. https://www.nahc.org/2017/12/07/groundbreaking-new-study-proves-home-care-saves-lives-and-money/
- National Library of Medicine. Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7437541/
- National Library of Medicine. Common Infections in Nursing Homes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3526889/