The Advantages of Home Care for the Elderly

By Susan R. Love

As individuals age, they often need a bit more help with their day-to-day activities. The question then becomes whether or not that individual should continue to live at home or move into an assisted living residence. Home care is a great option for the elderly and has many benefits.

1. Seniors who live at home are able to maintain a level of freedom that would not be possible at an assisted living residence. For many, this freedom is synonymous with maintaining dignity, which is something many individuals fear loosing as they age. Similarly, those who receive homecare can come and go as they please-for whatever reason. They can also choose their own meal times.

2. Elderly individuals do not have to part with any of their beloved possessions if they continue to live at home. Having the things they love physically close at hand can help keep stress levels to a minimum, as those possessions are tied to invaluable memories. Seniors can also keep their pets when living at home, and caring for an animal has been scientifically proven to have positive health benefits.

3. Those who live at home often have an easier time staying connected with friends and family. There aren't any visiting hours at home and the number of visitors allowed at any one time is not limited.

4. Homecare can help the elderly maintain better health. In places where many people live together, such as assisted living facilities, illness spreads very quickly and if one person gets sick, everyone tends to get sick. At home, sick guests can be asked to postpone their visit until they are well again.

5. Home care allows the elderly to avoid the emotional stress of moving to a new place with new people and a new routine. Maintaining continuity leads to psychological wellbeing.

6. Assisted living facilities are costly and the location may be inconvenient, making it difficult for family members to visit. Many seniors have already paid off their mortgage, so moving to a retirement home is an added expense. With few exceptions, home care is a more fiscally responsible choice.

7. As a final point, those who live at home are often happier than they would be living at a retirement home. The familiarity and comforts of home are irreplaceable.

It is now easier than ever for elderly individuals to live at home. There are many services that are both simple to use and affordable. Homecare products, such as security systems and pre-made meals, make living at home a viable option in many cases. Honoring your elderly family member's wishes is more feasible than ever before.

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