5 Reasons to Choose In-Home Elderly Care

If the mobility and health of your loved one starts to decline, you may start considering relocating them to a nursing home so they can receive adequate care. However, the idea of uprooting someone’s life and taking away some of their independence can be upsetting for not only you but your loved one.

In-home elderly care is a great alternative. It allows our loved ones to remain happy, independent, and healthy while staying at home. Forcing someone to leave their home and live in an unknown location can be traumatizing for them both mentally and physically.

There are a variety of levels of elderly care that can be found with in-home services in the Toledo area. In this guide, we’ll go over the top five reasons you should choose in-home elderly care for your loved one.

What is In-Home Care?

Before we go into the benefits of in-home care, let’s talk about what it entails. In-home nursing care is designed to fit the needs of each individual. The goal is to keep the patient safe and comfortable while they receive care at home.

Some of the services provided by an in-home nurse include:

• Assistance with daily activities like getting dressed and bathing
• Help with errands
• Evaluation of pulse, respiratory system, and blood pressure
• Medication set-up and education
• Patient care education
• Wound dressing changes and care
• Blood draws
• Catheter care
• IV therapy
• Injections
• Gastric feedings
• Diabetic teaching, including administering insulin and monitoring glucose levels

An individualized treatment plan will be designed that enable patients to receive the care they need while remaining at home. Patients are able to have control over their treatment plans and maintain independence.

In-home care can be a nurse coming by to administer treatment or they can live in your loved one’s home. It all depends upon the level of care the patient needs and if they need 24/7 monitoring.

The Benefits of In-Home Elderly Care

In-home care can be a wonderful alternative for those who still wish to live at home. Since the levels of care cover a large scope, it can be completely tailored based on the patient.

1. Your Loved One Can Stay Independent

Staying independent can maintain the mental and physical wellness of your loved one. They’re able to go through their daily lives and activities without having to ask someone for permission.

Living in a nursing home can be very restrictive for some patients. It has its own regulations and rules that apply to every person living there.

In-home elderly care lets your loved ones make their own decisions regarding their daily meals, entertainment, activities, and visits with friends and family. Keeping this sense of independence in the elderly is vital to preserving their mental health.

Losing their independence can be a big fear for the elderly. For example, if someone is unable to drive, an in-home caregiver can help with that. They can drive them to their appointments and on their errands, giving them parts of their life back.

2. They Can Enjoy the Comforts of Home

Everyone loves coming home after a long trip and sleeping in their own bed. Being uprooted and moved to a nursing home takes away that comfort and familiarity for the elderly. They no longer have the comforts of home since their home is now a strange and foreign place.

Your loved one can stay in their own home, surrounded by things that make them feel comfortable and safe. Getting used to a new environment in a nursing home can be a long and unpleasant experience. They’ll feel more secure in their surroundings if they can receive their care at home.

While staying at home, seniors will have more family involvement. Visitors can come and go much more easily. They can come at any hour, whenever their presence is needed.

3. Safety

The safety of your loved one is a primary focus when determining if in-home care is the best option. Safety equipment that’s installed in your loved one’s home will ensure that they’ll be safe as they receive care at home.

Safety equipment can include:

• Walkers
• Wheelchairs
• Grab bars
• Non-slip carpets
• Toilet safety frame
• Hand-held shower head

An in-home care provider will also make sure walkways are uncluttered and clear. They will be able to move about their house without worrying about tripping and falling over loose items.

4. Provides Companionship and Other Services

In-home care isn’t limited to only medical issues. Caregivers can help them with so much more than that. They can provide them with companionship and socialization.

Everyone wants to spend as much time as they can with their loved ones but sometimes that’s not feasible. With an in-home caregiver, you’ll feel secure knowing that someone is continually checking up on your loved one. Not only are they visiting them, but they’re ensuring that their medical needs are met.

An in-home caregiver can also cook their meals for them and take them to medical appointments. They can also take them on easy errands, giving them a sense of purpose.

5. More Affordable Than a Nursing Home

Nursing home costs can be incredibly high and not entirely covered by health insurance. A lot of patients have to pay fully in cash for their care. Receiving in-home care is often a cheaper alternative than living in a nursing home.

One of the reasons in-home care is more affordable than a nursing home is because the treatment plan is tailored to meet their specific needs. The caregiver can visit as often or as little as the patient needs. The frequency of their visits can always be increased based on the person’s health.

Find Quality In-Home Elderly Care Today

Figuring out the best option for care for a frail parent or loved one can be a difficult decision. In-home elderly care provides numerous benefits. You’ll feel secure knowing your loved one is being taken care of in the safety of their own home.

If you’re looking for in-home care options in the Toledo area, contact our office today.