Why Home Care?

Why Home Care?

The healthcare industry is flourishing throughout the United States mainly due to the aging baby boomer population requiring increased medical and non-medical attention. Where we are in Connecticut, assisted living facilities are popping up at a rapid rate. We see crews working on weekends to complete these monstrosities that will soon be filled with elders and others seeking long-term medical support. We also see an increased number of families looking for alternative, less expensive options, like home care.

So, why home care? What makes home care a more viable option for short or long-term health care? Well, the answer is not black and white. Every family doing their research on this matter should consider their loved ones needs and preferences prior to making final determination in either direction.

Congregate with your loved one and other family members to decide what that individual needs on a daily/weekly/monthly basis. Additionally, it’s important to determine how involved family members want to be on a regular basis. You might find after you compile this information that the answer is crystal clear. Either way, it’s smart to weigh the pros and cons of home care and assisted living solutions.

Here is a brief analysis of the pros and cons of home care and assisted living.

Home Care Pros

• Each individual remains in a space that’s comfortable for them. Eases any anxiety a disruption in environment might cause.
• Individual receives continuous care from 1 or 2 caregivers instead of many different caregivers.
• Depending on the level of care required, it’s usually more effective to receive in home care.
• Care plans take on a personalized approach so the individual is receiving exactly what they need.

Assisted Living Pros

• Individuals are living with other residents giving them a less socially isolating environment.
• Families are not responsible for scheduling caregivers.
• Activities are always planned, encouraging active lifestyle.

Home Care Cons

• Back up care giving involves a lot of planning.
• The home may need modifications for safety and/or accessibility purposes.
• Social isolation can lead to other health issues, it’s something to monitor if an individual receives minimal support at home.

Assisted Living Cons

• Work force has a high turnover rate
• Quality of care isn’t always as good as in home options
• Individuals might find a change in environment as depressing and not adjust well to living in a facility which could decrease their quality of life.

 Do your research. Talk to companies. Set up appointments to meet in person.

In summary, you can do all the best research there is but it’s truly important to know what will please your loved one receiving the care.