The More Rapid Their Convalescence

March 16

“The sooner patients can be removed from the depressing influence of general hospital life the more rapid their convalescence.”-Dr. Charlie Mayo, Mayo Clinic

Benefits of Home Care for Elderly

There are many benefits of having a loved one cared for in her own home instead of in a nursing care facility or group home. Most elderly are cared for at home by a primary caregiver such as a spouse, child or friend in combination with the assistance of a home care agency. Home care agencies can provide a wealth of services for older adults. Going through a licensed home care agency will assure that individuals are screened and qualified to enter the home and provide direct care.

Convenience

One of the main reasons that many people seek out home care for their elderly loved ones or themselves is for convenience. Having a medical care team come out and care for the patient means the patient doesn't have to leave the home as frequently. This can be especially beneficial to homebound patients who may be wheelchair or walker bound, or unable to move at all. Having a home care staff visit is also a cost-saving alternative to placing the patient into a medical care facility---which can cost several thousands of dollars each month.

Personal Care

For the homebound elder, having proper hygienic care is important. It may have become harder to shower or bathe as the patient has gotten older. The home health aide can visit several times a week to make sure the patient is showered, groomed and dressed. Qualified certified aids may assist with dressing changes or emptying catheter bags. Registered wound care nurses may come out and perform wound and skin care.

Health Care

Health care is an added benefit to the elderly person receiving home care services. Qualified and licensed nurses will visit as needed to care for the patient's medical needs. These nurses work under the direct supervision of a medical director or primary physician to provide proper care. Some of their services may include taking vitals, inserting catheters, drawing blood, applying pain patches, administering medication and assessing overall patient health.

Respite Care

Many home care agencies both public and private generally offer respite care to their patients. Respite care is where a volunteer, nurse or home health aide sits with the patient while the primary caregiver is away or seeks rest or respite. Respite care can involve monitoring the patient, spending time with the patient or even spending the night with the patient so they are not left alone.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping is an important benefit to utilizing home care services. A housekeeper is either hired directly by the elderly person or services are provided by a home health care agency. Some of these services may include making the bed, laundry, wiping down furniture, dusting, vacuuming and making sure the entry ways and thresholds are clear and safe for the patient to pass through. Some housekeepers may run errands or occasionally do outside yard work and repairs for the patient.