When we reach a certain age, we often require some form of assistance, such as a gentle nudge to take medication or help with meal preparation. Although nursing homes have traditionally been the go-to option for seniors in need, the benefits of having an in-home caregiver are becoming increasingly clear.

Fostering Connection

One major advantage of in-home care over nursing homes is the quality of the relationship between the caregiver and the senior. In a nursing home, the ratio of residents to care staff can make it difficult to establish meaningful connections. Receiving care can be an emotionally challenging experience for seniors, in particular, when it comes to more intimate forms of care, such as hygiene assistance. However, having a caregiver that a senior knows personally can make it easier to accept and ask for needed support.

General companionship between a senior and caregiver is another way in which in-home care can benefit seniors who require additional assistance. Depression and loneliness are common concerns among seniors, and while nursing homes may seem like social settings, it’s difficult to predict how each individual will react to such an environment. Opting for in-home care can provide your loved one with the companionship they need to mitigate the risk of emotional stress brought on by loneliness. In many cases, in-home caregivers and their patients form extremely strong bonds.

Stability 

It’s not surprising that familiarity is one of the many advantages of hiring in-home care for a loved one. Stability in both routine and location can be extremely beneficial for seniors who are ill or struggling with their health. Leaving a long-time home or routine to start new in a care facility can be emotionally challenging, and such drastic changes can also take a physical toll. Rather than uprooting your loved one from their home or separating them from their family and friends, in-home care allows them to continue living their life as usual. Being able to spend this stage of their life in the place they call home can significantly improve their well-being and happiness.

Independence

While a nursing home is not a prison, it can limit the freedom and independence of seniors. In some cases, seniors may require additional assistance, but are still capable of living a significant portion of their life independently. Placing them in a nursing home may do more harm than good. In these situations, investing in quality care when they need it the most and allowing them to maintain their lifestyle as much as possible may be a better option. In addition to preserving their freedom, research has shown that independence can promote mental and emotional well-being. An active mind is less likely to deteriorate, which can have a significant impact on quality of life in old age.

Affordability

Ensuring that your loved one receives proper care shouldn’t break the bank. However, in the case of most nursing homes, it does. Surprisingly, in-home care can be much more cost-effective, especially for long-term cases. Depending on your loved one’s condition, in-home care may be the more affordable and overall better option. Whether you have a budget in mind or anticipate a long-term care plan, in-home care is a more affordable option.

Explore how HMC HomeCare can fit into the life of the senior you love. Contact us today!