There will come a time when a conversation about seniors getting care is inevitable. In the US, the conversation is more important, considering the increasing growth of seniors above 66 years. Statistics show that the population of seniors is projected to increase from 54 million to 96 million by 2060 because of the baby boom generation. Moreover, it is important to know that many seniors are living alone. As their population grows, experts at Capital City Nurses say that the demand for care in facilities and at home is increasing, too.
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Home Care for Seniors
Home care, also called domiciliary care or in-home care, is a form of senior care service, which allow people to get support and assistance right at home. Home care in Frederick, MD services may range from home healthcare that includes medical and skilled nursing care to personal care, like support with grooming and bathing.
Pros
- Seniors stay in the comfort of their homes as they grow older
- Family get to choose a caregiver they want as well as monitor interactions
- The entire family enjoys total flexibility
- Caregivers and seniors get a chance of establishing a strong bond
- Seniors get face-to-face care, often tailored to unique preferences and needs
Cons
- Responsibility level can result in resentment as well as strained relationships between loved ones and caregivers
- Increased risks of loneliness and social isolation, which may lead to cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety
- Monitoring the health of loved ones and managing caregivers need ongoing involvement
- Apart from caregiving, caregivers are also liable for errands and household chores, among other tasks
- Home modifications are necessary
- hair services in a senior living
Facility Care for Seniors
Different facilities provide care and housing services to seniors who can’t live independently. Some also provide healthcare on-site. They mainly focus on helping seniors with daily activities, such as eating, dressing, and bathing, but don’t always offer ongoing nursing care.
Pros
- Modifications to caregivers’ schedules and homes are unnecessary
- Seniors have a good opportunity of socializing with other people
- The whole family can concentrate on building a healthy relationship with their loved ones
- Families don’t worry about managing, scheduling, and hiring a caregiver
- Families can increase the level of support for their loved ones
Cons
- They limit privacy of seniors
- Risks of inadequate medical care for loved ones with a specific medical condition
- The cost varies depending on the services a facility offers
- Loved ones might be unwilling to leave homes they built and lived for years
- Residents can be uncomfortable in a new environment and might take more time for them to adjust
Choosing between the Two
If you are evaluating several senior care options, consider a few factors. These factors are highlighted and discussed below:
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Cost
In the US, the cost of home care and facility care services vary. But facility care often comes with higher price tags and often needs residents to make upfront, significant financial deposits before they move into any facility. In contrast, home care service providers provide cost savings and flexibility, especially if a loved one requires support at particular hours of the day, like overnight, at bedtime, or early in the morning.
2. Services
Home care and care facilities provide the same personal care services. These services include transportation, medication reminders, laundry, toileting, meal preparation/cooking, and light housekeeping, to name a few. But home care providers offer face-to-face dedicated services at a senior’s home. Plus, the team often focus more on a loved one’s safety, comfort, and preferences.
The bottom line is that, the decision you make between care facility and home care depends on several factors, like financial considerations, family dynamics, personal preferences, and health conditions. In-home care allows seniors to maintain their independence as well as age in place, whereas facility care offers a communal and structured environment with professional and 24/7 care.