One Senior Place: In-home care for seniors offers many benefits

Lisa Conway
·2 min read

My mother refuses to discuss assisted living. Can you tell me about in-home care?

Many adult children wrestle with finding the right kind of care for their aging parents. Assisted living, rehabilitation facilities and memory care communities are all staffed with professionals and designed to meet the care needs of aging adults. However, in-home care for seniors also offers numerous benefits, making it a popular choice for many families. Here's why:

Comfort: Seniors can stay in their own homes, surrounded by familiar settings and routines, which can be especially beneficial for those with memory issues.

Personalized care: Care plans are tailored to the individual’s specific needs, whether they require assistance for a few hours a day or full-time care.

Independence: In-home care supports seniors in maintaining their independence by helping with daily activities while allowing them to stay in their own homes.

Faster recovery: Research shows that patients recover more quickly and successfully at home compared to medical facilities, with a lower risk of infections.

Cost-effectiveness: Home care can be more affordable than residential care facilities, especially for part-time assistance.

Peace of mind: Families can remain actively involved, while resting easy knowing their loved ones are safe and well-cared for, reducing the risk of falls or injuries.

Companionship: In-home caregivers provide social interaction and companionship, which can improve mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Pet ownership: Seniors can continue to enjoy the companionship of their pets, which is not always possible in residential care facilities.

For many seniors, aging-in-place means getting the support they need in the comfort of their own homes.
For many seniors, aging-in-place means getting the support they need in the comfort of their own homes.

Care Management and in-home care services by certified professionals are usually available 24/7 and include:

  • Bathing, dressing and personal care

  • Meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry and transportation

  • On-call availability of a registered nurse

  • Medication management and medical care coordination

Carolyn Orlik, Operations Manager for Senior Partner Care Services in Melbourne, speaks regularly with seniors about aging-in-place options. "People like their independence and want to do for themselves for as long as possible. But sometimes staying independent means getting a little help at home."

In-home care costs can vary, based on geography and the needs of the client. For many seniors, aging-in-place means getting the support they need in the comfort of their own homes. On August 9, join me for "Live Longer at Home" during Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa. The discussion will include information about Medicare, Medicaid and long-term care insurance to cover the cost of home care. RSVP online at oneseniorplace.com or call 321-751-6771 in Viera.

Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for Senior Partner Care Services, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, 'Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.'

One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. Send questions to [email protected], call 321-751-6771 or visit oneseniorplace.com.

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This article originally appeared on Florida Today: In-home care for seniors offers independence and comfort

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