5 Ways You Didn’t Know In-Home Care Can Help

Most people want to age in place. According to AARP, three out of four Americans age 50 or older say they prefer to remain in their current residence for as long as possible. However, many will need assistance to do so. That’s where in-home care comes in.

 

At Your Side Home Care helps older adults continue to live in their own home and continue to do the things they love. Our caregivers can assist with personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders, and light housekeeping.

 

However, that’s only a fraction of what home care can do. Here are some additional ways in-home care can help older adults.

Loneliness can affect someone’s emotional and physical health. Among older adults, 43 percent report feeling lonely on a regular basis. Researchers found lonely seniors were more likely to experience a decline in the ability to perform activities of daily living such as eating, bathing and toileting. Loneliness is also associated with an increased risk of death. 

 

Caregivers provide companionship older adults often desire. An in-home caregiver can engage with a senior to keep them socially and mentally active. We take into account a person’s unique hobbies, skills and interests, and incorporate meaningful activities into their daily routines.

Transportation can be an obstacle for older adults. One in five seniors reports missing activities they like to do because of driving limitations.

 

Caregivers can assist with transportation to and from social engagements, religious services and doctor appointments. We also help with grocery shopping, trips to the beauty salon/barbershop and other errands.

Every year, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for injuries related to falls, and the majority of falls happen at home. Injuries can make it difficult for someone to live independently.

 

The good news is most falls can be prevented through home modifications and lifestyle changes. Many of our offices offer free in-home safety checks and fall risk assessments. Our trained professionals can look at all aspects of a person’s living conditions and make recommendations to reduce fall risks.

 

In addition, if there is a fall, illness or emergency, an in-home caregiver can make sure the person gets proper medical attention right away.  

While rewarding, caring for an aging parent or relative can be emotionally and physically demanding. Plus, everyone needs a break sometimes.

 

We provide what’s known as respite care. This allows family caregivers to take time away from their caregiving responsibilities to rest, relax and recharge while ensuring their loved one receives the highest quality care.       

 

We also offer DementiaWise® - a special program for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. 

 

Those recovering from an illness or surgery can benefit from our services. Our team will communicate with the discharge planner or other health care professional.

 

We can provide transportation from the hospital with stops to pick up prescriptions or shop for groceries. Back at home, caregivers can help with medication reminders, meal preparation and laundry.

 

Contact your local At Your Side to learn how we can help you live your best life possible.