At home companions can provide a range of benefits, from personal care to reducing stress on family members, and even help to maintain the safety of the home. If you are a family member or loved one who is looking after a parent or loved one with a health condition, it is important to understand your options.
Personal care covers basic care duties
Personal care is the act of helping seniors with daily tasks. This may include things like making meals, cleaning, or helping them with errands. Often the aide is a trained professional who can take care of all of the personal needs while keeping the senior in their own home.
The best way to find the right aide is to do your research. Ask family members, friends, and healthcare providers about their experiences with personal care. It is also a good idea to talk with local organizations. They will likely have a pool of vetted aides who will be able to recommend the best fit for your needs.
Some states require that you register with a personal care agency before you can hire one. These agencies will handle payroll, insurance, and screening. However, you’ll end up paying more than if you hired a private caregiver. You’ll also have to perform background checks on your aide before they can start work.
Non-medical assistance for chronic health conditions
If you are a proud owner of a bleary eyed senior citizen, you are probably in the market for a high-five or two. Fortunately, there are numerous services and products to choose from in your quest to eschew a traditional caregiver for a more granular approach to healthcare. Some of these include the aforementioned aforementioned, as well as concierge and companion services. For some, this can be a very stressful experience. It is for this reason that hiring a qualified and compassionate senior care provider can be the perfect alternative to letting the stress of aging set in. With a small amount of legwork and elbow grease, your senescent spouse can enjoy a swell of quality time.
Reduce stress for family caregivers
Caregiving for a family member is a tough job. But, there are ways to reduce stress and take care of your own health.
Taking a break for a few hours every week can help ease your stress. You can also find community services and respite centers in your area.
Getting enough rest is a vital component of maintaining your physical and mental health. If you feel like you are unable to get enough sleep, you should talk to your doctor.
Maintaining a healthy diet is important for your own health. Boosting your energy levels through exercise is also helpful. It keeps your immune system strong and your digestion strong.
Getting regular exercise is also a great way to reduce stress. Exercise boosts your strength, stamina, and circulation. Keeping a stock of healthy foods in your freezer at least every two weeks can be a huge help.
Seeing your doctor regularly can also be beneficial. Your physician will be able to provide you with information about any medications you are taking. This is especially important if you are a family caregiver.