It’s not unusual for people to require some sort of assistance as they age. For some, the only real solution is to move into a care facility. Others may not be ready for this type of change. In fact, remaining in their homes and having help come in is a better choice. If you’re wondering what would be best for your loved one, look closely at what at home care has to offer. If it’s the right option, your loved one could get to enjoy the following.
Remaining in Familiar Surroundings
There’s a lot to be said for remaining at home. Every nook and cranny is familiar. The space contains quite a few memories as well as reminders of a life well lived. All the little quirks, from the bedroom window that sometimes sticks to the ring of the doorbell, are known and part of the way life is supposed to be.
After working for a lifetime to establish this type of home, the idea of having to give it up may not hold much appeal. In fact, it may be viewed as giving up on life in general. Assuming your loved one can remain in the home with some sort of care by a professional, why not leave things as they are? You can bet that the familiar surroundings will make a big difference in terms of continuing to enjoy life.
Feeling Comfortable and Safe Again
You’ve probably begun to look into living options because of some event that took place in the home of your loved one. It could be a kettle that was left on the stove, a back door that was left unlocked, or some other sign of a change in cognition. You’re likely not the only one who’s concerned. Your loved one may also be mindful of what took place and feel uneasy about what it means for the future.
Assistance at home can put everyone’s minds at ease. You know there’s someone with your loved one who can ensure the doors are locked, no one is falling in the shower, and the range is turned off after the water in the kettle is hot. Your loved one has the comfort of knowing someone is checking on the little things and ensuring everything is okay.
Managing Expenses More Efficiently
There’s also the financial aspect to consider. What would be the best way to use the available funds and still ensure your loved one is cared for properly? Depending on the general physical and mental health of the patient, at home care could be the most prudent financial choice as well as the best one for other reasons.
For example, live-in help may be more affordable than an assisted living facility. Assuming the level of care needed can be managed in the home, why go to the extra expense right now? Things could change in the future, but care at home is the best choice for the time being.
Feeling More Independent
Remaining at home, even with a live-in caregiver, preserves the sense of being independent and in control. That’s not always a feeling that’s preserved in some care facilities. Within the home, the loved one still gets to decide on when meals are consumed, what one watches on television, and when it’s time to enjoy a walk or spend time in the back yard. All those things add up to feeling better about life in general.
Do you believe the remaining in the home while adding a caregiver to the mix would be best? If so, talk with a professional today. After going over the merits of this solution, you and your loved one may decide this is the right way to ensure everyone is happier.