Regardless of medical conditions, most seniors want to live in the comfort and security of their own homes for as long as possible. Home health care can provide medical, non-medical, and companionship services to seniors, helping them retain their independence and quality of life.
What To Expect From Home Health Care for Seniors
Home health care usually involves treatments such as skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and medication assistance, provided by a licensed medical professional in the patient’s home. It often provides the same type of medical care given in nursing homes.
A doctor’s referral is typically required in order to receive home health care services. Upon receiving a referral from a physician, an appointment will be made with the health care provider and the patient (and the patient’s family, if appropriate) to review specific needs and address concerns.
What Types Of Services Does Home Health Care for Seniors Include?
Home health care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient, home, and schedule. Some seniors require only a few hours of help each month, while others need care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Home health care services may include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Nutritional therapy
- Registered Nurse Services
- Certified Nursing Assistant Services
- Social Worker Services
- Hospice End of Life Care
- Palliative Care
- Medical Equipment at Home
Other Types of Home Care for Seniors
Home health care may be accompanied by other types of personal care and companionship services, such as:
- Non-medical home care: Home care aides assist with personal tasks, such as grooming, toileting, and bathing.
- Companion care: Home companions provide companionship and assist with household tasks, such as light housework, meal preparation, errands, and transportation.
How Can Home Health Care Help Aging Adults?
Home health care providers, such as registered nurses, typically assist with tasks such as:
- Monitoring intake of food and drink
- Checking vitals, including breathing, heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure
- Assist with medication administration
- Monitor home safety levels
- Monitor levels of pain
- Changing wound dressings
- Tending to IVs and catheters
- Administering injections
- Monitoring progress
- Coordinate patient care with the patient, physician, caregivers, case managers, and family
What Conditions Can Home Health Care Help Treat?
There are a number of common conditions among seniors that can benefit from a comprehensive home health care program. These can include:
- Cardiovascular problems
- Post-surgical recovery
- Neurological disorders
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia
- Respiratory problems
- Diabetes
- Joint replacement
- Dialysis
- Much more
Is Home Health Care Right for Me?
Home health care may be an ideal solution if you or your loved one:
- Requires regular nursing care
- Needs daily health monitoring
- Requires certain medical treatments on a regular basis
- Experiences medical issues that require long-term attention
- Has difficulty taking medications
- Wants to stay at home
If you are considering home health care for yourself or an aging family member, discuss your options with your doctor.
How Much Does Home Health Care for Seniors Cost?
Home health care is typically covered by Medicare and private health insurance policies when prescribed by a doctor. However, this is usually only for a limited period of time. Other sources of funding, such as veterans benefits, long-term care insurance, and direct pay are also options to cover home health care costs. State-level financial assistance programs may be available to families that qualify.
Home health care costs may vary, based on:
- Location
- Acuity level
- Length of care time
Contact Us Today
If you or an aging family member is dealing with a long-term illness or injury, home health care may be an ideal options.
