Pages

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Many Options Are Available For Those In Need Of Home Care Services

By Tiffany Gill


It may be somewhat overwhelming when one discovers that he or she must find help for aging parents or other family members. This is because there is a broad range of options available when such services are necessary. These alternatives include long-term care facilities, visiting nurses, or home care services.

In order to choose a suitable option, a person's health history must be taken into consideration. Receiving assistance at home is one alternative for those who were not incapacitated or disabled. This option is frequently selected by those who want their loved one to stay in his or her own dwelling; however, they know that daily help is required.

Typically, before a person is enrolled in such services, a medical assessment is made by a visiting nurse in order to identify the type of help the individual needs. Sometimes moderate assistance with one's basic activities of daily living is all he or she requires. However, skilled care is sometimes necessary, which must be administered by a licensed nurse who works under the direction of a physician.

A safety evaluation is usually part of an assessment for such services. The goal of this evaluation is to discover if sanitation issues exist or if the home is dangerous in any way for the elderly person. The professional who completes this assessment will also make recommendations concerning the level of assistance needed by the client and he or she will communicate these suggestions to concerned family members.

Almost every ill or disabled individual prefers to stay in his or her own dwelling, but this is impossible in some cases. When a person can no longer safely live alone, loved ones will quickly find that there is a wide selection of alternatives regarding health care facilities. Assisted-living establishments are one of these options, and make a great choice for those who are not disabled or incapacitated.

A personal-care home should not be confused with a long-term care facility in which skilled nursing is provided. Rather than offering the services found with the latter, assisted living facilities help residents with the activities of daily living. These activities may include transportation to and from scheduled doctor's visits, assistance with personal hygiene, and help with meals.

Certain older individuals cannot function without skilled nursing assistance. With this point has been reached, the person's family should give thought to a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home. Registered nurses are employed at such establishments, who can regularly assess the health of various residents and assist them with taking any necessary medications. Most establishments of this type are also visited by doctors who offer checkups to disabled or ill individuals.

It is important for all family members to discuss each option available before making a final decision about which course of action is best for their loved one. Deciding which type of care is most suitable can be a challenging task, and not one that should be made in haste. Ultimately, home care services can be pursued by those who want to remain independent for as long as possible.




About the Author:



0 comments

Post a Comment