Benefits of Home Care for Elderly

It's not an easy task caring for the elderly, especially if you are trying to do it alone. There comes a time when you will need a break, or just some time alone for yourself. With the constant worry that something may go wrong, the respites and personal time become nonexistent. Home care for the elderly is an option for caregivers who need extra help while offering the elderly person a good quality of life for the rest of their years.

Peace of Mind

• Home care for the elderly usually includes a trained person in the medical field. This professional may be a nurse or perhaps simply a caregiver, who is not an RN but can look after the elderly and offer any support they may need. This support may include feeding, bathing, exercise assistance and even just casual conversation time. Home care offers the peace of mind that someone else is able to help with the daily responsibilities that are required for elder care.

One-on-One Care

• Nursing homes can be helpful; however, home care offers care on a more personal level. One-on-one care can benefit the elderly by offering them hope and happiness. Most elderly people strive for company and conversation, which is what home care can offer them. A home caregiver will spend more time with them, offering care to match the needs of the elderly person. Instead of having to wait their turn to be fed, walked or supervised during a daily activity, a home caregiver is readily available.

Nutrition and Exercise

• Nutrition is very important, especially in the elderly. A home caregiver can make the time to produce healthy and nutritional meals as well as keep a close eye on the amount of food eaten by the elderly person. A daily exercise program can be implemented and followed through. Home care also has the benefit of someone always being around, especially if the elderly person is out walking about, becomes winded and faces the potential of falling and possibly breaking a bone.

Transportation

• Home care offers transportation to the elderly. The caregiver can take the person to and from the various appointments they may have. This benefits the family greatly by not worrying them over whom and when will take the person and where they need to go. Some elderly people rely on public transportation, which can be risky for those who suffer from physical disabilities, dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Home care ensures the safety of the elderly person when moving from one place to another.

Costs

• Nursing homes can drain a person's pocketbook in a very short time. Although home care costs can add up, it is usually cheaper than paying for a nursing home or even assisted living. More than likely, the person paying for the expense of home care will feel better about the money spent, as the care is more personalized and the quality of life is far beyond what it could be in a nursing home or assisted living facility.