Senior Home Care Allows Seniors A Greater Level Of Independence

| Sunday, September 25, 2011
By Martin Derien


Looking after someone you care about is tough, particularly if they cared for you. When the time comes to get outside help, there are questions to ask yourself and potential providers so your loved one receives the care they deserve.

## How can I select a Home Health Agency?

Several factors should be considered. Does the agency actually provide the services? How long the employees have been with the agency? How long have they been in business? Is the agency family or corporate owned? Each one of these factors are important when reaching your choice.

## Can they treat joint replacement patients?

Joint replacement and subsequent rehab is among the leading reasons for senior home care. Patients need physical and occupational therapy to regain flexibility and strength. The home care organization should have certified physical and occupational therapists that come visit the patient and send progress reports to the surgeon.

## Do they have diabetes management?

With diabetes increasing, getting assistance with illness management is very important. Many home care providers offer diabetes management services. From dietary changes to assistance with insulin injections, home care providers offer services that help seniors figure out how to manage their diabetes rather than having their diabetes manage them.

## Would they help Dad remember his medication?

As people age, they typically take more medications. Several medications look very similar and should be taken at various points in the day so it's easy to get confused. This may lead to an unintentional overdose or not getting enough medication. Home care providers can set up automatic pill dispensers with alarms to alert seniors when to get their medications.

## Can they offer ostomy care?

At one time, an ostomy or catheter meant attending a nursing center for care. Now home health agencies can provide nursing staff to help maintain ostomies and catheters. Should a catheter have to be changed, home care nurses can change catheters in the privacy of the patient's home.

## Would they offer anticoagulation monitoring?

Seniors needing anticoagulation monitoring or other frequent blood draws need not journey to a testing facility. Home health agencies offer blood draws ordered through the physician and will forward the specimen to the doctor's lab of choice.

A solid home care agency is a benefit to caregivers aiming to help seniors carry on being productive after illness or injury. With the right home care, senior can remain in familiar surroundings and maintain their independence




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1 comments:

Lisa said...

Senior Home Care is preferred by most seniors because they can live in the comfort of their home close to family and this gives them a feeling of independence and security.A caring and dedicated home caregiver adds to the advantages of selecting Home Care Phoenixville, PA

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