text: Feb 22, 2019, 08:17am EST |
  Seniors aren't just their medical problems, and only treating their medical issues ignores their social, emotional and home-based needs.
  Home care, also known as companion care or personal care, addresses those non-medical needs. Home Care services are provided by caregivers who can help with cooking, cleaning, bathing and transportation and other support services. Caregivers also provide social interaction for seniors who might otherwise be isolated. The amount of care can be tailored to the senior's needs, from a few hours a day to around-the-clock care.
  But it is important to remember that seniors who have companionship are less likely to become depressed. Seniors who receive good nutrition and live in clean environments have fewer medical issues overall. Home care contributes to a senior's overall well-being and contributes to better medical outcomes.
  Home care and medical care providers have natural opportunities to work together and ensure consistent care for seniors. Communication is key. Home care allows seniors to age in place in their own familiar surroundings, letting them take advantage of home medical care or telehealth options.
  Telehealth is an emerging field that is positioned to become a true tool that will save lives and reduce ER visits and hospitalizations. Seniors can receive monitoring and check-ups from the comfort of their homes. As more seniors and their families realize the benefits of telehealth, it will become part of the healthcare continuum, working hand in hand with home care and home health care.
  As seniors age and their needs change, their care can gradually transition from mostly non-medical home care to more home health care. This option can make it more affordable for the senior to remain in their home for even longer with the independence they desire and care they deserve.
  It is important to note that home care is not the right fit for everyone. For some seniors and their families, other options are best, including independent living, assisted living or memory care for those with forms of dementia such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. The important thing is that these options are available, and seniors and their families can access them as their needs and wants change over time.
  Another often-voiced concern is cost. Non-medical home care is more affordable than home health care on an hourly basis, but it's important for individuals to start saving now in case you they need care in years to come. Long-term care insurance is one way to prepare, but individuals need to make sure their policy includes home care. There are also retirement savings plans that can be drawn upon to fund home care as needed.
  If you are exploring home care as part of a larger healthcare plan for yourself or a loved one, make sure to interview the provider thoroughly and ask the tough questions. Ask home care providers upfront what their experience is working with home health providers, and ask them for examples of their work alongside these providers. Find out how their combined efforts will benefit you or your loved one.
  Everyone involved in a senior's care should be committed to working together for the best outcomes possible. Seniors deserve the best care possible and especially as they enter their later years. New ways of looking at senior care can foster collaboration among medical and non-medical providers, keeping seniors happier and healthier. When researching care options for yourself or your loved one, consider a combined approach that transitions into different types of care depending on the current needs. Be sure to find providers who are willing to work together.