What Is Home Care?

Article submitted by: James Vaughn, MBA, CSA - Certified Senior Advisor.
For more information, he can be reached at 210-684-7080.

While Home Care can be used to describe both medical and non-medical care, typically home care refers to non-medical care such as companionship/homemaking services or personal care services, while home healthcare refers to the provision of skilled nursing care and other care such as speech, physical or occupational therapy.

Why should you consider Home Care?

When we are not feeling well, most of us ask to be at home. We enjoy the comfort of our residences and the joy of being with our loved ones. When our loved ones are ill, we try to get them home as soon as possible Home care keeps families together. This is particularly important in times of illness when families desire to be near one another for support. Home care is a comforting alternative to premature admission to a long-term care facility. Since most people would prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible, home care can provide a level of service that is customizable to the individual's needs.

Home care promotes healing. There is scientific evidence that many patients heal faster at home. Home care is safe. Many risks, such as infection, are eliminated or minimized when care is provided in the home. Home care allows for the maximum amount of freedom for the individual. Individuals at home can remain active in their customary daily routines. Home care is personalized and tailored to the needs of each individual. Individuals receive one-on-one care and attention. Home care is less expensive than other forms of care.

If skilled care is not needed around the clock, home care can allow you to create a customized care plan that meets your needs and your budget. Home care is the preferred form of care. National studies have shown that 95% of those ages 75 and older prefer to stay in their current residence for as long as possible.

Not long ago if a loved one became sick, had major surgery or needed prolonged care the choices were limited. You called on family, friends, members of the church or synagogue for help or went into a nursing home. Often someone had to quit their job to become the primary caregiver. Now assisted living services can be provided in the comfort of your own home.

How do you determine if Home Care is right for you?

As we age, changes occur. Looking at a loved one's appearance can be a sign that they are being limited either physically or mentally from completing otherwise normal daily tasks. Perhaps they are wearing clothing with food stains, their hair is not completely combed, or the house is no longer orderly and clean. Maybe you notice a lack of fresh food and the pantry is poorly stocked, your loved one appears to be losing weight.

There are many key indicators or warning signs you can look for to help determine if your loved one needs home care assistance immediately or may need additional assistance down the road such as home healthcare or skilled care through an assisted living or a nursing home facility.

Once you have determined that there is a need for elder care or senior living services, you should look at the level of care that is needed. This will help you determine whether home care, home healthcare, or an assisted living or nursing home facility is the best option.