Is Home Care Right for Mom or Dad?

~ by Richard Sgaglio

As we age we still want our independence. Many older Americans are choosing to stay in their homes longer and “age in place.” This trend allows people to remain in their family home surrounded by familiar furnishings that make them feel comfortable and safe.

But as we get older, certain activities that once seemed simple can become more difficult to manage. Bathing, dressing, cooking, laundry and cleaning might leave you exhausted or exposed to safety risks.  Sometimes family and friends can help, but it can strain relationships when “quality time” gets replaced by care time. One way to make sure your loved one’s life at home is healthy and safe is to seek the assistance of a trained home health aide.

Having your own personal caregiver is one of the best and most comfortable options for seniors who would rather live in their own home but require additional help on an ongoing basis.

What Do Home Health Aides Do?

Some Home Health Aides are specially trained to work with people as they age. They can be an excellent resource to help loved ones stay happy, healthy and safe in their home environment. Depending on the individual’s needs and abilities, your aide can help with personal care, preparing meals, and chores around the house. They will help keep you organized with medication and appointment reminders – even run errands when you need grocery shopping done or a prescription picked up.

The Benefits are Many  

Having a professionally trained aide can help families in so many ways. Safety is a big concern for adult children when their parent ages in place and the risk of falls increases. An aide can work with you to reduce tripping hazards and suggest other ways to keep your Mother safe and avoid unnecessary visits to the hospital. 

Getting proper nutrition and managing medications can also be challenges to
your parent’s health as they get older. When there is an aide helping in the home, seniors are more likely to take medications on schedule and have healthy choices at meal times.

Osborn Home Care service can include:

• A personalized care plan developed by a Registered Nurse Care Manager (in Westchester County, NY) or a professional Care Manager (in Fairfield County, CT)
• Assistance with bathing and dressing from a Certified Home Health Aide (homemaker companion in Fairfield County)
• Meal preparation, light housekeeping and assistance with medical appointments
• Assistance is available – from short shifts to 24/7 – for companion care to help with activities of daily living.
• Specialized caregivers with training in areas such as dementia and other areas to ensure your loved one receives the best care possible.

Many of us will serve as a caregivers for a loved one at some point in our lives. When this happens, we often spend more of our time “doing” than simply visiting with them. Utilizing home care services can reduce the burden of caring for a loved one and allow more quality time with them.  There is a tremendous peace of mind knowing that your Mother is safe and well cared for, even if you can’t always be there.

Making the Right Choice

There are many reasons to consider home care options for you or a family member. Having a professional home health aide is less expensive than the costs associate with assisted living; the sense of well-being that your family will achieve is invaluable.

The best time to review these options is before there is major health issue. To arrange a complimentary assessment in your home, contact Osborn Home Care, (914-925-8221 in Westchester County, 203-641-7683 in Fairfield County) or visit www.osbornhomecare.org. You can also take our free online assessment to determine if Home Care may be right for you or a loved one.

The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.