Working with families to help an elder loved one continue to live independently is highly rewarding work. When we talk to families seeking help, we discover that many aren’t aware of the full scope of services available to them. Here are just some of the services we provide and how they help your loved live a more fulfilling life.
Companionship and Life Enrichment
One of the greatest benefits of home care is often overlooked – the simple act of connecting with another human being. According to a study conducted by geriatricians and the University of California, San Francisco, 43 percent of seniors report feeling lonely at least some of the time. They also discovered that loneliness can be deadly. In this study, seniors who felt lonely were 45 percent more likely to die than those who felt connected to others. According to a study conducted at Brigham Young University, the health effect of loneliness is comparable to obesity. A home care professional can provide a source of companionship – someone to talk to, play cards with, or take a trip to the zoo. We’ve discovered that the relationship between caregiver and care receiver become one of the most important for both parties, enriching both of their lives.
Personal Care
As we age, many everyday activities, such as dressing and bathing, can become more challenging. A home caregiver can help seniors manage day-to-day activities – from medication reminders to assisting with performing a prescribed exercise program to helping them with preparing tasty, nutritious meals – to ensure their safety and security, while allowing them to remain in their home.
Fall Prevention/Safety Supervision
Seniors are at a much higher risk for falls and, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are the leading cause of injury in the elderly. Falls account for over 70 percent of ER visits for older adults. A home caregiver can help ensure the house is free from some common fall risks, such as clothes and shoes lying on the ground or electrical cords in the path of common walking areas.
Daily Chores and Errands
A home care professional can also help with daily errands, such as light housekeeping, driving and accompanying people to medical appointments, picking up groceries or prescriptions, laundry and organizing the household.
Respite Care
An in-home caregiver can also provide support to a family caregiver, so they can take a needed vacation, go to work, or simply find some alone time. Respite service provides professional and compassionate care, so the caregiver can be confident in knowing their loved one is being taken care of.
Home care provides a variety of services designed to increase the well-being of seniors while providing peace of mind to family members. Learn more about the services we offer and how they can help you and your loved one.
