Non-Medical Home Health Care

Just because a senior is having more problems at home does not mean it’s time to recommend a move elsewhere. Such a circumstance could, however, signal the need for more help at home. The first step in determining if care is warranted is to take a senior’s needs and desires into account. Sometimes these are difficult conversations to have with an older adult who is convinced he or she does not need help. The best way for a family caregiver to start these conversations is to acknowledge the senior’s desire to stay at home: “You know, Mom, I want you to stay at home, too, however that might be more difficult if you fall or get sick. A little extra help could keep you safe and independent at home for a longer time.”Non-medical home health care in Albuquerque might be ideal for an older adult who is recovering from an illness or a surgery, such as a knee replacement, and does not need medical assistance, but rather help around the home with ADLs and IADLs. The need can be just as much for emotional and mental support, as well as physical assistance. A senior who loses a spouse can become depressed and lonely to the point her own health suffers. Or a widower’s increasing forgetfulness can put him at risk of forgetting to pay the bills, or worse, to take his medications. Enhancing Lives The companionship component of a professional caregiver’s job can be just as vital as the physical assistance a professional will provide. Seniors need conversation and one-on-one contact to keep their minds alert. They can thrive with someone to participate in their favorite activities such as gardening, baking or woodworking, or someone to go to the grocery store or attend a concert. Many seniors need help to get their day started with assistance showering, preparing breakfast and taking their medications. Likewise, help before bedtime, or even overnight, can be an important safety net for seniors at home who often are more apprehensive at nighttime. A reputable non-medical caregiving company will provide caregivers who can meet all of those needs. The Cost of Non-Medical In-Home Care The national average hourly rate for homemaker/companions was $19 in 2009, according to the 2009 MetLife Market Survey of Nursing Home, Assisted Living, Adult Day Services, and Home Care Costs. While more and more long-term care insurance companies are covering this option, it is still primarily paid for by the family or the seniors themselves.While that price tag might sound expensive, consider that most care of this kind is provided for just a few hours a week. In fact, a Home Instead Senior Care study indicates that 22 percent of their clients employ caregiver services four hours or less per week and 20 percent employ them between four and eight hours per week.There’s also the issue of a senior’s preferences. If a parent or loved one is happiest at home, the cost of additional care may very well be worth it.

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