Getting older is a part of life. With each birthday that passes, youth slips away like sand through an hourglass. “At least I still have my health,” is a commonly heard refrain.
At some point, however, our health inevitably starts to decline and, when that happens, our ability to take care of our basic needs can suffer. Suddenly, the activities of daily living can become challenging, or even impossible to carry out without the help of others, and we are faced with tough decisions about our future.
When you, or someone you love, is facing such a difficult situation, it can be overwhelming, to say the least. No one wants to lose their independence or be faced with the possibility of having to leave their home.
The good news: with the right combination of home care services, not only is it possible to remain in the comfort of home, it can often be the best option.
A Home Care Plan That Works
Chronic illness or a general decline in health often comes with a need for more help than loved ones can provide. Yet, study after study shows that we all fare better, both emotionally and physically, in the familiar environment of our own home. Most people understand that home health agencies are available to assist with the medical aspects of home care, but what about everything else?
If the basic activities of daily living have become challenging, the addition of private, in-home personal care may be just the answer. A personal care assistant can help with a variety of tasks, such as mobility, cooking, laundry, bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, light housework and more — whatever is needed to help seniors, or those with chronic illness, maintain their independence and remain at home. Personal care can also provide a valuable source of friendship and companionship to the patient, while giving a much-needed break to overworked family members.
What About the Cost?
In many cases, the cost of private care is less, overall, than a nursing home or rehabilitation facility. Most patients pay for the cost from their own funds. Other financing options that may be available to help with costs are health insurance, long-term care insurance policies and accrued savings.
Selecting a Personal Care Provider
Select an agency that’s state-licensed and carries liability insurance. Personal care assistants should be screened for communicable diseases and have background checks to weed out anyone with a criminal record.
Once you have selected an agency, it’s important to interview potential candidates to assess their background and experience. Have them interact with your loved one and watch carefully to be sure they are a good fit and you feel comfortable placing your trust in them.
If you are looking for an in-home caregiver for someone you love, sometimes it’s best to start with a referral. Aspire can help — as a trusted home health and hospice provider, we know the value of adding personal assistance to a home care plan. We work with several caring professionals serving Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. Contact us if you need a referral, or if you have any questions.
