Aging in Place: The Different Types of In-Home Care

Understanding the Desire to Age in Place

Your mom is becoming more and more frail. You’ve suggested a move to a senior living community – a place that can meet her growing health needs – but she refuses to even think about it. 

What now?

The Importance of In-Home Care Services

“An overwhelming majority of older adults want to remain in their homes as they age,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations director at HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “Not that long ago, that wasn’t an option for many seniors – especially those with chronic conditions or memory loss. Today, there are many in-home services available to help seniors live safely and comfortably in their homes for as long as possible.”

Types of In-Home Care Services Available

The different types of home care include:

Home Health Care: Medical Support at Home

Home health care services are performed by licensed medical professionals, such as doctors and registered nurses. They help patients live comfortably in their homes while receiving critical medical care. Home health services include:

• Diagnosing and treating illness
• Monitoring vital signs
• Wound care
• Removing stitches and sutures
• Administering medications

Rehabilitation Services: Therapy for Recovery

After an illness or injury, seniors may need help recovering at home. Physical therapists can help them regain strength. Occupational therapists can help them relearn how to perform daily tasks like eating, bathing, dressing and more. A speech therapist will help improve communication.

Personal Care Assistance: Daily Living Support

Home care organizations, like HCAN, employ professional caregivers who are trained to provide services that help people with activities of daily living, such as:

• Bathing and grooming
• Dressing
• Toileting
• Medication reminders
• Nutritional support
• Transportation
• Companionship

Medical Social Services: Counseling and Community Resources

A medical social worker provides various services including counseling and locating available community services. 

Respite Care: Supporting Family Caregivers

This service provides short-term relief for primary caregivers, giving them time to rest, work or travel.

Hospice Care: Compassionate End-of-Life Support

Through this program, trained professionals provide comfort and care in end-of-life situations. Services include regular visits, delivery of necessary home medical equipment, medication management and grief counseling.

Customizing Care Plans for Individual Needs

“At HCAN, our care teams work closely with families, medical professionals, social workers and others to develop customized home care plans to meet every client’s unique needs,” Goetz said. “Whether it’s just a few hours a week or 24/7, our professional caregivers provide the support many seniors need to age safely where they want to be – in their home.”

Conclusion: Ensuring Comfort and Safety at Home

For more information on how to ensure your loved ones can age comfortably and safely in their own homes, visit HCAN.com or call your local HCAN office.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—take the first step towards securing the best in-home care for your family today. Your loved ones deserve the support they need to thrive in the place they call home. Reach out now and discover the options available to you!