The 7 Benefits of In-Home Care for Seniors

October 30, 2016

All people get to a point in their lives where they need a little extra help. Whether you are recently retired, have an ongoing medical issue, or simply can’t get around the way you used to, there is no shame in getting some help. However, the reality is that you can’t always depend on family to provide this help.

Rather than moving into an assisted care facility, many seniors are opting for in-home care because of the many benefits and flexibility it offers. It is the perfect option for seniors who require some assistance, but not enough to warrant moving into a retirement home.

The Benefits of In-Home Care for Seniors

Whether you have physical limitations, require help with certain tasks, or you simply want someone to keep you company when your family can’t, in-home care for seniors is an increasingly popular option. In particular, there are 7 commonly cited benefits of choosing in-home care.

1. You maintain the comforts of home

This is far and away the top benefit of opting for in-home care versus moving into an assisted living facility. There is nothing better than the comfy confines of your own home. You can sleep in your own bed, relax and watch television on your own sofa, and it’s your home, so you make the rules. After many years of working hard and making your home uniquely yours, the last thing you probably want to do is give it up. In-home care ensures you can stay in your home, and get the help and treatment you need in a comfortable environment.

2. Personalized one-on-one care

When you choose in-home care, you are guaranteed to get the undivided attention of your caregiver. They are in your home to provide you with one-on-one care, ensuring you get the best assistance possible. There are no other patients or distractions that can interrupt your care, allowing you to not only get the help you need but also get the best value for the money you are paying for these services.

3. You maintain your independence

Seniors have a strong sense of pride, and you should. You have worked hard your whole life for the things you have and now you want to enjoy them. Even if you require assistance, you are most comfortable in your own home, and knowing that you are at home and live on your own allows you to maintain your independence and gives you the confidence to keep doing so. With an in-home care provider, you can still do the things you enjoy doing and in the comfort of your own home.

4. Customized care to meet your specific needs

One of the great benefits of in-home care is that services and care can be customized to meet your unique needs. Services vary from live-in care, full time, part time, and occasional care. Specialized care is available for seniors with certain health conditions and needs. So, whether you need assistance with medication, recovery from a medical procedure, bathing, meal preparation, household chores or running errands, you can get the help you need.

5. Peace of mind

Having access to in-home care when you need it will give seniors peace of mind in knowing they can get the help they need to maintain their independent lifestyle. It also provides your loved ones with peace of mind in knowing you can get help when they can’t be there for you. With work, kids, and everyday life, it’s difficult for families to be there all the time for their elderly parents. In-home care takes some of the burden off family members, while ensuring seniors have access to reliable and high-quality care.

6. Reduced financial burden

Finances are a big concern for seniors. Most live on a limited budget, making it difficult for them to afford the high cost of retirement homes. In-home care helps to reduce the financial burden by allowing you to cater care to your specific needs and monthly budget. If one day of care per week is what works for you financially, then you can choose this option. You choose the care services that fit in your budget.

7. No strict schedules or timelines

A final benefit of choosing in-home care is that you are not relegated to a specific schedule or timeline, as you would in a retirement home. While you do need to schedule the times your caregiver will come to your home, you have the flexibility to choose the times and dates that work for you. You also have the flexibility to make adjustments to your care schedule if circumstances change.

Shared Support

In-home senior care also provides greater flexibility with the work, time, and pay arrangements you choose for your caregiver. Many families who are supporting relatively health loved-ones will instead opt to hire a nanny, who often charge less than home health aides. Further, if you do not require a full time care provider, nanny sharing can help immensely. Here, the goal is to divide time with another family or group who requires care. If your family member is hesitant to receive support, a part time care giver or nanny share might help them ease in to the change! To find a nanny share, Eldercare.com sadly isn't your best resource. Instead, consider using Nanny Lane.

Conclusion

Being able to live a happy and independent lifestyle is the goal for most seniors. There is no place more comfortable than your own home. As in-home care for seniors continues to evolve, it provides more care options than ever before. Whether you need full-time care or just someone to help out around the house occasionally, there is an in-home care option for you.

Let us help you find the help you need

Whether you need some help around the house or simply want some company, Eldercare.com can help you find the perfect elder care provider for your situation – we can connect you directly to a caregiver in your area.

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