Staying Independent at Home: How Home Care Can Help
posted on December 28, 2011
Aging and independence seem to fight against each other; as age increases, independence seems to decrease. For many seniors, the concept of a nursing home represents the end of independence and many fear asking for assistance if this is the answer.
This situation often results in a common dilemma – both for the individuals seeking help and for caregivers who feel they cannot provide the complete care needed for their loved one. While placement in a nursing home may seem like the most obvious and perhaps easiest choice, consider a home care agency as an alternative option.
The expanse of care available at nursing homes is also available through home care agencies. These agencies carry extensive geriatric expertise with nurses; physical, occupational, and speech therapist; social workers and geriatric care managers; dieticians; home health aides; and companion providers all available directly to your home.Geriatric care managers and social workers are on hand to ensure patients and careivers know about all the resource
s that are available and ensure all your needs are met.Companions offer a unique type of service to those needing occasional assistance. Whether you need help running errands, taking care of your pets, or help with housekeeping, companions provide the little extra help you need. Additionally, these providers can help keep your social life active. Companions are there to play card or board games and accompany you to social events. Eligibility for home care is not restricted to specific needs or care levels. Home care services are available to individuals needing assistance due to dementia or Alzheimer’s as well as individuals with physical limitations. Therapists can teach clients exercises to regain or enhance balance. Occupational Therapists can offer patients advice on how to remedy tripping hazards in your home or provide tools to for daily living to patients with Parkinson’s or after a stroke.
Clients with dementia can remain at home with home care assistance. Home health aides and companions can provide in-home servi
Many Independent living communities offer the independence clients need with assistance available as you need it. Shared aide programs – using home health aides from agencies in an independent living community – provide morning, evening, and night checks as well as medication reminders. The services offered by home care agencies can be provided for through insurance and are available through private pay if your needs are not covered. Companion or Home Health Aide services are tailored to your needs and often at a cost less than assisted living or a higher level of care.
If you’d like more information regarding services available through HCR Home Care, please call us at 585-272-1930 and ask to speak to a Home Care Specialist.
