When confronted with the challenges presented by Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other degenerative disorders, many families turn to assisted living facilities. However, there is an alternative for people hoping to remain in their homes. A caregiver can make aging in place safer and more comfortable for older adults of all ability levels. In this guide, we’ll explain your available options and help you understand what to expect from in-home care.
Who Is a Good Candidate for In-Home Care?
In-home care allows older adults to remain in familiar surroundings as their needs and abilities change, rather than moving to a residential care community. Combined with essential home modifications and assistive technology, in-home care can enable seniors to enjoy a higher quality of life during their golden years.
Home care is an excellent alternative to assisted living for those who wish to live independently as they get older. It can be beneficial for older adults who need help with the following.
- Fall prevention
- Medication reminders
- Daily household tasks such as laundry
- Bathing, dressing, cooking, and eating
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
- Daily companionship
If you have been taking on most of the caregiving responsibilities for your loved one, home care services can also make these tasks more manageable for you as their condition progresses.
Does Your Loved One Need a Caregiver?
Home care is an appealing option for many older adults who can’t look after themselves as well as they used to. It’s customizable, evolving with your loved one’s changing needs. For instance, you may start by hiring a professional caregiver for only a few hours a week.
Though everyone is different, here are some signs that could indicate your loved one would benefit from in-home care.
- Rapid weight loss
- Limited mobility
- Increased forgetfulness
- Worsening hygiene practices
- Neglecting to maintain home cleanliness or organization
- Inability to drive safely
- Loneliness or depression
- Frequent injuries from tripping or falling
In-Home Care vs. Assisted Living
You may worry that hiring an in-home caregiver is outside your price range, but it’s essential to consider the various factors contributing to the cost. For example, if your loved one has paid off their home and no longer has a regular mortgage payment, the fees associated with moving into a skilled nursing facility may be more expensive.
You should also research the credentials and training of any caregivers looking after your loved one’s medical and emotional needs. At Legacy Homecare LA, we require all our experienced Care Companions to complete specific certifications in Alzheimer’s, dementia, and elder care. This education ensures they can keep up with these conditions as they progress.
Home Care Providers Serving Los Angeles, CA
Home care keeps your loved one in a comfortable, familiar setting, with consistent companionship delivered by a dedicated caregiver. They will have more autonomy in their daily life, with care delivered to their specific preferences.
Ultimately, it’s impossible to put a price tag on your family’s health, happiness, and quality of life. Legacy Homecare LA pledges to put all our clients first, following our philosophy of honoring older adults’ desire for dignity, independence, and mental stimulation. We understand you want the best for your loved one, and we promise to treat them as we would our family members. Reach out to us to learn more about what we can offer.
