A Family’s Guide to Home Care for Aging Loved Ones

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A Family’s Guide to Home Care for Aging Loved Ones

Industry studies report that upwards of 90% of seniors and older adults have expressed their desire to age in place, in the comfort of their own homes. While historically, seniors often moved to assisted living homes and nursing facilities when extra assistance was needed with daily activities and personal care, today’s generation of seniors are able to live out their golden years at home thanks to reliable and professional support systems such as in-home care.

What is home care?

Home care in Jefferson County is non-medical care for seniors and older adults. Care provided in the comfort of the senior’s home and can include help with a variety of daily tasks ranging from help with grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning to mobility, mediation reminders and transportation. Reliable transportation to medical appointments, on errands or for personal events is also available.

Who provides in-home care services?

There are generally two types of individuals who provide home care: private-hire caregivers and agency-hire caregivers. Although both types of caregivers may be qualified to provide care, families often prefer the additional peace of mind that comes with agency hired caregivers. These caregivers are bonded, licensed and insured so that the family is not responsible for things like workers’ compensation and caregiver taxes, and their care is often overseen by a Care Manager, meaning that families do not have to train or manage their caregivers. Click here to learn more about the differences between private and agency hired caregivers.

When does a caregiver provide care?

When you work with reputable care agencies such as Home Care Assistance, caregivers are available 24/7 to provide care on an hourly or live-in basis. With hourly care, a caregiver can come a few hours a day or a few days a week, providing minimal assistance with activities of daily living to help promote independence and quality of life. Jefferson County live-in care is typically for seniors who have complex care needs as the result of an illness or advanced condition, as well as those who simply prefer the safety and security of having a trained and professional caregiver by their side 24 hours a day.

What if my loved one is living with dementia?

Home care is appropriate for seniors of all abilities, including those living with dementia or another cognitive condition so long as the caregiver is experienced and trained in dementia care. For instance, at Home Care Assistance of Jefferson County, all of our caregivers receive extensive training in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method, a wellness program that utilizes stimulating brain games to engage clients and promote mental acuity and overall brain health. Such services make living at home with dementia possible and ensure the highest level of quality dementia care for seniors in Jefferson County.

How much does home care cost?

Home care prices vary depending on who provides the care services, however the cost of care is generally less expensive than care that is provided at assisted living or nursing homes. This is because these types of senior living centers often charge a base (yearly or monthly) fee as well as additional fees depending on the types of services provided. With home care, seniors and their families are only responsible for paying for the hours when a caregiver is present and there are no upfront fees. Long-term, home care is often a more personalized and cost-effective care option.

Do you have other questions about home care? Perhaps you’d simply like to have a conversation with a home care professional? Reach out to Home Care Assistance of Jefferson County at (303) 987-5992 today. Our friendly and experienced Care Managers are available to help 24/7 and can also help you schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to learn more about our care services.

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