Deciding that an elderly relative needs care can be a difficult and worrisome experience. Many families debate whether a long-term care facility is best or if their loved ones would be better suited to one of the many available nursing home alternatives. Finding the care facility that is right for your family may be easier than you think. But the first step is to become aware of the different options and educate yourself about their benefits, qualities and possible negative aspects of each. Here is a brief description of two nursing home alternatives and what they offer:
Companion Agencies or Homemaker Services
This is a great choice if your relative is simply in need of help and support with daily tasks but is not in need of medical assistance. For example, companion and homemaking agencies will lend a hand when preparing meals, making daily shopping trips, clean and complete housework and can be a guiding companion when leaving the home for leisurely outings. However, neither the staff at a homemaking service or a hired companion can assist with medication, bathing or bathroom needs. This is the perfect nursing home alternative for any senior who is mentally healthy and would like to stay in their own home, living an independent life.
In-house Health Agencies
Similar to a companion agency, in-house health agencies will visit the elderly in their home and provide some daily companionship. However, the main difference between the two services is that a health agency can provide healthcare services such as assistance with medications, dietary advice and even speech or physical therapy. Due to their ability to supply medical services, in-house health agencies are required to be licensed in their area and as a result can be easily found and contacted through local hospitals or senior lifestyle developments. In-house health agencies are a good alternative when your loved ones may need medical assistance on a daily basis or are in a transitional period between living on their own and moving into a permanent care facility.
If you are your family are searching for suitable nursing home alternatives consider speaking to your family physician and asking for any referrals or recommendations they may have. Or contact your local senior center for the information needed to contact services in your area.
Dee Cohen is a licensed social worker and discusses socialworkprograms.org/nursing-home-abuse.html Nursing Home Abuse and articles on socialworkprograms.org/depression-counselling-trauma-psychotherapy.html Depression Counselling at her social work site for those interested in the mental health field.
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