Aging is an inevitable part of life, and as seniors age they need extra assistance – which is where homecare comes into play.
Visiting Angels tailors its care plans specifically to each of its clients, with their caregivers trained to detect subtle cues such as an appetite loss or change in behavior.
It’s Affordable
Home care can be an affordable alternative to nursing homes, costing approximately half as much. Many seniors may have long-term care insurance which covers some or all of the expenses. Senior programs and caregiver-related tax credits also may offer advantages.
Senior home care agencies typically provide personal services like housekeeping and errand support; their caregivers may not necessarily have medical training but should still be certified. Other agencies like Nurse Next Door even have home health aides who can help with medical needs.
Are You Searching for Personal or Healthcare Home Care Aides in America? Prices can differ widely across the nation depending on what assistance your loved one requires, as well as with each agency that services your area. To be certain, speak with an agency near your area about specific pricing – an hourly rate averages $26, though if they only need care a few times each week it could cost less.
It’s Personalized
Home care services are tailored specifically to each client, beginning with an in-home safety evaluation to assess care management needs and evaluate in-home safety issues. This step ensures your loved one remains secure at home.
An individualized senior home care plan will include services designed to meet your loved one’s daily living needs, such as laundry, shopping and cooking assistance, light housekeeping duties, pet sitting services, financial and healthcare management as well as transportation needs.
Some agencies offer memory care services specifically tailored for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These services offer a safe and structured environment in a small group home that feels like family, with caregivers assigned specifically to one resident as they collaborate as a team to meet all their care needs. Individualized care helps reduce loneliness while increasing socialization for your loved one; an assigned care coordinator will be present throughout care provision.
It’s Flexible
Your needs for home care depend upon your loved one’s specific circumstances and living situation, which is why your local Visiting Angels agency offers customized care plans designed to fit each of their clients. Care coordinators stay in contact with both parties throughout their care plan so as to remain aware of any changing preferences or needs as their preferences evolve.
Non-medical home care offers assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as meal preparation and bathing. Services may also include socialization or transportation to events and activities.
Skilled home care–offering services such as wound care, medication management and physical therapy–is also readily available. However, unlike caregivers, skilled home health providers are licensed professionals.
Start by gathering referrals from trusted family and friends. Next, meet with prospective home care partners to explore all your options and discuss qualifications and experience of team as well as any training received by members. Ideally, look for someone that offers Consumer Directed In-Home Services (CDIS), giving your loved one greater control of their care.
It’s Peace of Mind
Many elderly are concerned that they will lose their independence, yet home care offers them peace of mind by giving them extra assistance when needed. It allows them to remain in their own homes and communities knowing there will always be someone there when needed for assistance.
Visitating caregivers are trained to recognize signs that could indicate serious problems, including refusal to eat, weight loss, medication mismanagement and changes in memory and reasoning. Their presence can prevent serious health complications and keep your loved one safe.
Home care gives families peace of mind by giving you direct communication with the caregiver providing care, as well as access to regular updates from a care manager on how their progress is going. Furthermore, as every situation differs from another one’s needs can change over time, care plans can easily adapt accordingly to keep up with them. To find out more about senior home care today contact an agency near you.