As people become older, they usually need more assistance completing their daily activities. Often it can be difficult to decide the type of care that the senior will benefit from the most. There are advantages and disadvantages to choosing between in home assisted living and assisted living for your loved one.
This is a hard decision for families, so careful consideration is necessary. The elderly family member, their doctors, social workers, and other healthcare team members should discuss this important decision.
The Advantages Of In Home Assistance
One of the first things you must consider is whether or not your loved one has a degenerative condition. Sometimes degenerative conditions may eventually prevent them from getting the most benefit from in home assisted living.
If this is the case, you may need to begin discussing the alternative of an assisted living facility with the senior. However, seniors can receive many advantages from remaining in their homes. They will be in a familiar environment, and they will also be able to seek friends and family in a comfortable space. This way, when family members are not available, a home nursing staff can provide care and assistance in their own home.
Another advantage of in home assistance is decreased risk of depression. The risk of depression increases when a senior relocates to long-term care. The prevalence of major depression ranges from 12% to 30%, while an additional 15% to 50% of residents may show significant depressive symptoms. In the home health setting, the prevalence of depression ranges from 10% to 26%.
As you begin to see how common and personally devastating depression can be for a frail elderly person, you must advocate for our frail elders to improve and manage this condition.
The Disadvantages of In Home Assisted Living
Assisted living should only be considered an option if in-home assistance is not appropriate. It is easy for the senior to become isolated and venture out of the facility less and less. This is why assisted living should only be used as a step in care if it is deemed appropriate.
In home assisted living can help with the current and future needs of your senior. It is the best way to ensure your loved one receives the care, assistance, and supervision they need.
Are you looking for an agency that can provide reliable and professional nursing care for your loved one? Schedule a consultation with Evergreen Private Care today!