Q: What are some signs that someone needs In-Home Senior Care?
A: Perhaps they need a reminder about taking medication or a little help with tasks such as dressing, bathing and grooming. There may be a loved one that prefers to stay at home but needs some help that cannot be effectively provided by family or friends. The elderly person may have stability problems, trouble transferring in and out of bed, diminishing personal hygiene, or difficulty preparing nutritious meals. One of the most difficult discussions is if they are no longer able to, or simply forgetting to pay their bills. This may not be a visible sign, but one that demonstrates your loved one may need in-home senior care.
Q: What are the typical services I should expect for in-home services?
A: Caregivers provide non-medical assistance including personal care tasks and homemaker services. Personalized and customized Plans can include the following: bathing, dressing, grooming, daily hygiene, oral care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, transportation and companionship.
Q: What if my loved one doesn't need medical help but just needs someone to make sure they're doing okay in his/her everyday life?
A: Companion assistance is ideal for those who spend the majority of their time alone and need help with home tasks. Companion caregivers provide valuable emotional support and provide social benefits that help to decrease isolation and depression. This helps seniors stay mentally healthy and alert through conversation and encouragement to be as physically active as possible. This assistance also provides invaluable peace of mind to family and love ones.
Q; I love the idea of a companion caregiver! What would the companion caregiver be doing for my loved one?
A: All of the following services are provided by companion caregivers: Safety and a watchful eye on daily routine. Medication reminders - documentation of time and amount taken. Transportation to appointments, shopping, errands and social outings. Safety for those unsteady on their feet. Grocery shopping and nutritious meal preparation. Social engagement; cards, board games, scrap booking, gardening. Light housekeeping - laundry - linen change - kitchen sanitation. Pet care. Reading aloud. Exercise and walking. Meaningful conversation and reminiscence. Assisting as an extra set of hands, eyes, and feet.
Q: What traits should I be looking for when selecting a caregiver?
A: A true professional caregiver feels a sense of calling to serve others. They derive satisfaction from making the difference in the life of another. If you don't get that sense of passion from the potential caregiver, find someone else! The 5 main characteristics to look for are: compassion/empathy, patience, creative thinking skills, composure, and negotiating skills. Additionally, caregivers must refrain from giving unsolicited or personal advice, or commenting on non related issues.
Q: Why does in-home care benefit my loved one more than a residential facility?
A: The psychological benefit of remaining within a familiar environment with beloved family, friends and belongings is immeasurable. Making the transition to assisted living or nursing options can be stressful for seniors, eroding security and freedom. Clients rarely receive individualized, one-on-one attention in facilities. Typically, services like personal assistance, medication reminders, housekeeping and meals are offered on an "ala carte" basis and represent additional expenditures.
Easy Living Services, Inc. has been serving the metro Atlanta area since 1994 proving to be a trusted source for quality Home Care. We offer flexible care options designed to guarantee safety, comfort, companionship and personal attention to your loved one at home.
Call us now at 770-442-8664jor visit us online at: www.easylivingservices.com