Are you starting to think about whether you’ll be able to age in place? As we age, this is one common thought that we all have, and one that can provoke a lot of uncertainty and emotions. For some, they don’t see a way that they will be able to stay home yet they can’t fathom the thought of not doing so. As you may already know, many people utilize in-home care in order to stay home, but even still, there is often a stigma associated with it. As a result, many avoid even a conversation about it. I’d like to share reasons why you shouldn’t allow the thought of in-home care to scare you:
- In-home care is not as expensive as you may think. Unless you need home health care and/or medical monitoring around the clock, personal care assistance or companion care can be a lot less expensive than an assisted living facility.
- You will not need to give up your independence. One of the scariest things for anyone to think about is the thought of losing their independence. Oftentimes, the thought is that with in-home care, one’s freedom, privacy, or dignity will be compromised. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Trained caregivers will respect your privacy and wishes. Caregivers are there to help you accomplish daily tasks that are difficult for you to do on your own. They are not there to control your life. At Shepherd’s Staff In-home Care, our primary focus is to keep you safe and to encourage you to remain active while doing as much as possible for yourself. This way, clients can live independently at home for as long as possible.
- In-home care does not mean you are disabled. Have you ever thought that someone who receives in-home care is only doing so only because they are disabled? That is often not the case. Caregivers may be hired to provide help with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, cooking, and light housework. But in-home care can take the form of companion care as well. Perhaps you function fairly well but are unable to drive safely. A companion can help with running errands, attending doctor, dentist, or salon appointments, or enjoying time outside of your home. In addition to helping with appointments, shopping, or errands, companions can also do activities that encourage cognitive stimulation, if needed, such as conversation, reading aloud, and playing brain games.
Some other things to keep in mind about in-home care:
- It’s easier for friends and relatives to visit. With in-home care, there are no time restrictions or set visiting hours so you can enjoy more social interaction. This helps combat loneliness and depression. Another benefit is that you get to keep many family traditions—like hosting Thanksgiving dinner, with your caregiver and your loved ones helping with the cooking!
- You can still enjoy the routines you love most. Do you sit on your front porch every morning and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? Do you go out and get fresh-cut flowers from your garden every spring? You can still enjoy these things in the comfort of your own home!
- Comfort. One of the greatest advantages is being in the comfort of your own home.