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How Do You Care for Elderly at Home?
Date Updated: September 19, 2024
Written by:
Sarah has produced thousands of articles in diverse niches over her decade-long career as a full-time freelance writer. This includes substantial content in the fields of senior care and health care. She has experience writing about wide-ranging topics, such as types of care, care costs, funding options, state Medicaid programs and senior resources.
You care for the elderly at home by ensuring you meet their support needs, providing enrichment opportunities and maintaining a safe environment. Various sources of external support also exist for those caring for seniors. In-home care aides help lighten the load for family member caregivers while ensuring quality care and quality of life. Additionally, doctors sometimes prescribe medical-focused home health services for seniors with clinical or therapeutic needs.
In-Home Care Services
In-home care agencies provide hands-on nonmedical help for older adults aging in place. Trained aides care for seniors living alone or with family, promoting safety, independence and alleviating pressure from family members. Aides follow personalized care plans to meet individual needs and update the plans as necessary. In-home agencies arrange for as much or as little support as required.
Standard in-home care services include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing and toileting, and light domestic chores, including housework and laundry. Aides sometimes prepare meals and buy groceries. Other services include transportation and companionship. Those who need medical or rehabilitative care will benefit from more intensive home health care services.
Other Ways to Support Seniors Aging in Place
Home modifications, such as ramps, voice-operated devices, grab rails and raised toilet seats, assist older adults who remain at home. Diverse agencies and organizations offer extra support, such as home-delivered meals, friendly phone calls and volunteer assistance with chores. Families should contact their closest Area Agency on Aging to learn about local service availability, including temporary respite care designed to give family members a break. Family members also have access to online and in-person support groups that connect them with others in similar situations. Senior centers operate in many locations. They provide a safe space for older adults to socialize and participate in an array of enrichment, engagement and wellness activities. Many centers provide door-to-door transportation and congregate meals.