If you have a loved one who is sick or injured and in need of additional medical care, you might be considering what option is most suitable to their needs. In-home care can be a great solution for many people. Here are seven reasons to consider home health care for your loved one.
- A Comfortable Solution
As the old saying goes, “There’s no place like home.” That couldn’t be more true! One of the main benefits of home care is it allows your loved one to enjoy the familiar and comfortable luxuries of their own home, while still getting the medical attention they need.
When you opt for in-home services, your family member can enjoy home-cooked, well-balanced meals and the ability to stay in a home that’s familiar to them — along with many other comforts.
- More Independence
In many cases, home health care allows your loved ones to maintain their independence for as long as possible. Some people only require help with light housework, meal planning, medication assistance, and transport to and from appointments or grocery shopping.
3. Personal Care Needs
If your loved one requires more medical attention, don’t fret. Bathing, dressing, nail trimming, toileting, mobility support, and eye health with vision insurance are other home care needs that can usually be arranged.
- An Affordable Option
Depending on the amount of medical attention your loved one requires, home health care can be a more affordable option than an assisted living facility or nursing home.
Several factors determine the cost of home care, including the company you use, the number of hours you’ll need care for and geographic location. In New York City, for example, the average cost of home health care is $20 per hour. Another factor that will generally determine the amount you’ll spend is the extent of medical attention the patient requires. Light chores and meal preparation will generally cost less than more demanding tasks, like helping them in the restroom.
- Keeps Families Together
Placing your family member in an assisted living or nursing home can be a painful decision to make. It might even lead to resentment. For the nursing home patient, it can also lead to loneliness and depression.
Whether it’s your spouse, elderly parent, or a sick or injured child, home care allows your family to stay together as long as possible. And who doesn’t want more time with their loved ones?
- Safer Option
Nursing homes aren’t without risks. There have been numerous incidents of elder abuse. There have also been cases where someone wasn’t monitored closely enough and they suffered a fall. Bedsores are also an issue at nursing homes that have poorly trained staff. Of course, we can’t forget that the country is currently in a pandemic and there’s a verifiably higher risk of COVID-19 fatalities in those facilities.
Home care helps reduce these risks. You’ll have the ability to see your senior family member on a regular basis to monitor for any problems that may be occurring. Since home aides offer one-on-one care, they’ll also be able to better supervise your loved one.
- Companionship
Another one of the main advantages of home care is it allows your senior citizen family member to receive companionship. When you’re not available to spend time with your loved one, they may experience some loneliness. A home aide will often converse, play cards or enjoy other activities with your family member. This can increase your family member’s happiness.
These are just seven reasons to consider home health care. Although there are situations where an assisted living facility or nursing home may be more ideal or even necessary, many patients can benefit from home aides. The advantages of home care can help your loved ones have a better quality of life — and allows you to spend more time together. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.