As the Baby Boomer generation continues to reach the age of 65 and older, more seniors than ever before are opting for in-home care. In fact, more than 2.4 million elderly or disabled patients now receive care in the home as a preferred form of treatment. These patients cover the spectrum of medical needs, including recovery from surgery to heart disease to recovery from injuries.
Responding to Benefits and Advantages
This growth in home care as a preferred form of treatment is due to a number of advantages and benefits. Aside from the psychological boost of being in the comforting environment of one’s home, there are a number of additional pluses for the patients, the caregivers, and the family. These multiple benefits fall into several categories, including:- Independence: Many of today’s seniors are anxious to maintain their independence and sense of freedom. Instead of confinement in a nursing or medical facility while relying on others, remaining at home retains that sense of stability and freedom. Moreover, seniors feel they are making their own decisions, and they can continue to make decisions about their home and lifestyle.
- Efficiency of care: When care is provided in the home, especially if it involves therapy and/or rehabilitation, the treatment is focused on a realistic, practical situation. The senior is in a familiar environment where movement is safer and well-known. Additionally, home care covers an entire spectrum of care, allowing for the provision of only those services needed. Instead of occupying a bed in a remote full-service facility, care at home can be tapered down or accelerated based on specific needs. From daily medication reminders to meal preparation to full therapy, only those services needed are provided.
- Personalized care in a one-on-one environment: In-home care is carefully tailored to each patient’s situation and need. Instead of being one patient vying for attention among dozens, the senior receiving home care has the undivided attention of the home health professional. A care plan is developed and followed to ensure the treatment provided is precisely what is needed. There is the added comfort of receiving regular treatment from the same caregiver instead of a stream of strangers.
- Supportive of treatment goals: A great deal of energy and effort is expended when a patient has to get in a vehicle, travel to a medical office or facility, wait for treatment, and then return home. However, when that care is provide in the home, all of that energy is directed to healing and recovery, not simply surviving the trip out and back.
- Convenience and peace of mind: In addition to the psychological advantages to the senior, many loved ones and family caregivers find in-home care is far more convenient. Aside from having more control over a schedule, knowing their loved one is in their own home and receiving professional care provides a peace of mind to many. Instead of coordinating trips for care or having to visit in a facility, family members often prefer visiting at the senior’s home and minimizing potential conflicts.