Understand Elder Options to Remain at Home

The vast majority of people, including the elderly, aging seniors and disabled adults, would prefer to remain in the safety and comfort of their own homes. However, to do so depends on a number of factors.

One major factor involves access to care. Across the country, the combination of lower Medicaid (low income) reimbursements for in-home care combined with demand for higher wages has led to fewer available aides and even visiting nurses. And yet, the demand for in-home services continues to increase.

The in-home care industry is currently the number one job creator, but there are flaws in these statistics. Much of the work is part-time. The wage scale is low. And seniors and their families are the employers…which in many cases means they are responsible to pay the wages for these services.

Employee retention can also be a very difficult issue to manage. I find that my employees are very dedicated and loyal to the elderly they work with. But if they can’t get enough hours with an assigned case, they may have to consider other opportunities or juggle other part-time work.

In-home care is a terrific option for elderly parents who don’t want to move (assisted living or nursing home) or downsize. Staying at home with some additional assistance enables them to maintain their independence, while receiving some extra help with daily reminders, physical help, or companionship. In-home caregivers can do a variety of tasks that range from housekeeping and transportation to personal care tasks, like grooming and bathing.

Understand the level of support best suited to your elderly parents and seniors. There are part-time, full-time, and live-in caregivers. Not to mention home health care nurses. Discuss the care needs required, and level of services available with your aging senior. There is a mutually beneficial match which will maintain elder home safety and comfort while providing wages to a very dedicated and caring workforce.

JD Miller

About JD Miller

John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions. Phone: (781) 378-2164 Email: [email protected] Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com
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