When it comes to looking after your elderly loved ones, you want to do what’s best for them. If your elderly parents or relatives are struggling to live independently in their home and need some extra support, there are various care options you can consider to make their lives a little more comfortable.
A popular care option is 24 hour home care. Statistics from the National Association for Home Care and Hospice in 2010 state that around 12 million Americans require home care. Home care allows seniors to remain in their homes while receiving the help they need from a health care professional or live-in relative.
There are many benefits to choosing home care for your loved ones that will improve their physical, emotional and social health. We’ll explore some of the reasons why home care may be a good choice for you and your family.
Providing help when it is needed
It is essential to minimize any risks to a senior’s physical health from injury within the home. However, if an emergency does happen, having 24 hour care for the elderly in their own homes ensures they will get the help they need immediately if they slip, trip or fall. This support will make them feel safe, while also giving you peace of mind.
Care is tailored to specific needs
With home care, assistance can be tailored precisely to the senior’s needs. This flexibility means you can be sure your loved ones receive the best health care to make them as comfortable as possible.
Certified medical professionals can help with daily errands, meal preparation, personal hygiene and medication compliance. Clients can also enjoy the consistency of the same caregiver which helps establish a routine, therefore increasing their level of comfort.
Be surrounded by the comforts of home
Seniors often find it upsetting if they are told they need to move away from their homes. This is because their homes are familiar and provide secure and happy surroundings due to the emotional ties and memories that they associate with living there.
Home care relieves some of this added stress and allows seniors to continue to live in their own homes, surrounded by family photographs, mementos and keepsakes that hold precious memories. Having these items close by to reminiscence can help improve a senior’s emotional health.
Promote recovery
If your elderly relative has had to stay in the hospital following a medical emergency or medical treatment, it is vital they receive the right after-care. Hospital stays can be particularly traumatizing for seniors because of the unfamiliar surroundings. Convalescing in a hospital can create an even more stressful situation, which can delay recovery time.
On the other hand, if seniors can leave the hospital and be cared for at home, they will instantly feel more relaxed and comfortable. This, in turn, can help to promote a speedier recovery, as less stress means the body can more easily repair itself.
Hold onto independence
Older adults are used to being self-sufficient, and they may feel frustrated when the time comes for assisted care. They want to keep their independence for as long as possible, and 24-hour home care allows them to do so. Keeping their independence can help seniors improve their social health and overall well-being, as they can continue to take part in their normal daily activities, along with the necessary help and support.
Final thoughts Deciding on the best care plan for your elderly relatives is a difficult decision. You want to put their interests first to ensure they are well looked after, safe and happy.
Plus, 24-hour home care has many benefits for seniors. Some of these include being able to stay in their own home with familiar surroundings, keeping their independence and continuing to engage in regular social interactions with friends and family.
Home care makes the situation of needing support a little bit less stressful and can help to improve the emotional, physical, and social health of your elderly loved ones.
