One of the best things about people is that every one of them is completely unique, and that does not change simply because of aging. As we get older, we continue to be the unique and intricate people that we have been our entire lives. Presuming that all seniors will act the same and have a need for the same things is a one-size-fits-all approach that just will not work for older adults or the family members who care for them. Providing in-home care services to older individuals calls for a creative and thoughtful approach that requires that the caregiver learn more about the individual and their distinct needs. Taking these details into account allows family caregivers to identify the best plan of care to keep the individual healthy and well at home.
In the same way that there are a number of different types of people with unique needs, there are also numerous different types of in-home care services and providers. Knowing what kinds of services, or combinations of services, are best for an older family member can help the person live a happier, healthier life at home. Working with a trusted senior care provider like Compassionate Care Home Health Services is also incredibly important.
When it’s time to explore home care services for a loved one, a geriatric care assessment for daily function, depression, and mental status is a critical step. A home care agency will provide an assessment in order to identify which types of services are advised for an older adult.
A geriatric care assessment is intended to:
- Outline all of the concerns and challenges that an older adult might be enduring
- Create a plan of care to recommend solutions for recognized issues
- Assess an older adult’s access to supports that can help them safely continue to live at home
- Identify care needs and the frequency of care that should be provided
After completion, a geriatric care assessment can lead to:
- Better health outcomes
- Postponing the onset of impairment
- Understanding changes in health before they develop
- Improved quality of life
- Saving on health care costs
- Identifying rehabilitation needs
- Planning services to improve safety
- Discovering early-stage disease
- Determining a person’s ability to care for himself or herself
- Identifying and correcting fall risks
During a geriatric care assessment, a home care provider should also take plenty of time to get to know the person for whom care will be provided – their life background, likes and dislikes, and character traits. Time should also be spent getting to know the individual’s family better. Recognizing family dynamics, personal history, interests, and more can help a home care agency personalize the care they provide for the unique people they serve.
At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, we’re devoted to supporting the independence and dignity of every single person we serve. When health conditions and life stages result in the need for a little support or even full-time care, we know the changes that follow can be complex, emotional and overwhelming. We can help you determine a loved one’s care needs and the ideal level of in-home care services to ensure the person maintains independence at home. Contact us today at 877.308.1212 to find out more about our in home health care in Saginaw, MI and throughout the nearby areas and to schedule your free in-home assessment.