Getting Help From Home

Choosing to help a parent age in place can be difficult. You'll need to provide constant care for your loved one to ensure his or her health and safety. In-home care services can be a great benefit for families, but finding the right balance of services is essential. If you aren't sure which types of services to seek out, here are some helpful tips you can use as you begin to create an in-home care plan.

Respite Services

If you are the sole caregiver, respite services are an ideal way for you to get some much-deserved rest. Respite services may be offered for free from the local government in your area, or you may be able to pay a nominal fee for services provided through your family's healthcare insurance provider. Typically, respite care lasts for a few hours each week, giving you the time to run errands or simply take an afternoon for yourself. Any respite worker you use should have experience with patients who have dementia and other medical conditions specific to senior citizens. Your respite worker will provide companionship but will likely not be responsible for any housekeeping or medical care.

Companionship Services

Having a senior parent home alone all day can cause him or her to become frustrated, bored, or even sad. In-home companionship services help ward off boredom and keep your loved one busy throughout the day. Your caregiver may play board games, watch television, or go on outings with your loved one. This type of care typically costs less than skilled nursing care, as the service being provided is basic. However, you will want to make sure that anyone providing companionship services is trained in CPR and has experience with how to handle medical emergencies, should they arise.

Community Outreach Services

Many communities have a host of outreach services for seniors, and engaging in those services can often yield positive results. Check with your local community center or park district to inquire about any available senior services. You may find that the park district offers classes and outings for seniors, or you may discover a meal delivery service that can provide your loved one with a hot meal while you are at work. It is through these programs you may be able to find respite services or even volunteers who can come to your home and spend time with your loved one.

Housekeeping Services

Keeping up with cooking, cleaning, and laundry is difficult enough when you are caring only for yourself. Adding caregiver responsibilities for an extra family member can leave you feeling stretched to the limit. Engaging in a housekeeping service can help you feel less overwhelmed while ensuring your relative doesn't feel pressured to do this work on his or her own. Look for a housekeeping service that provides meal preparation as well as cleaning. Knowing that your parent is getting a home-cooked meal while you are away can be a great comfort. If your loved one has dementia, having the cooking done by a housekeeper can help you feel more at ease while you're away from home.

To learn more about senior home care, contact your local professionals today.