Evolving Model of Home Care
Today, 80% of all long-term care is provided by family members and friends. This care is provided at home, and does not include hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions. Caregiving might include grocery shopping and housecleaning for a disabled parent during the week. Or, helping a loved one who is recuperating from surgery to bathe and dress several days each week. It also may include full immersion in providing 24-hour attention to an elderly parent or spouse struggling with Alzheimer’s.
The problem with this evolving model of care is that there are (or soon will be) fewer children to provide care. Today’s average couple has only two children, whereas earlier generations of their elders had four or more children in the family. Secondly, family members may not live nearby due to increased mobility, economic necessity, and relocation. Kids move out of state for jobs and schools, and may settle in another area. Third, there is an escalating number of singles without spouses due to rising divorce rates. (Approximately 50% of marriages end in divorce.) And finally, more middle-aged men and women continue to work for economic and/or professional reasons.
Meanwhile, on a daily basis, many baby boomers are coming to the realization that Medicare was never designed to cover long term costs. Even though the overwhelming majority of elders would prefer to be cared for at home, Medicare will only provide reimbursement for hospital and physician expenses. Medicare only offers limited support for nursing home and home health care. Another interesting fact — more than 90% of Americans have never discussed long term options, roles and responsibilities of family members. There is no plan for paying long term care needs.
When seniors or individuals recovering from an illness or injury need long-term or short-term assistance with their daily living needs, home is the most comfortable and convenient place for them to receive care.
Oftentimes family members — out of love — will attempt to take over the responsibility of caring for a parent or a sibling themselves. Unfortunately, this generous act can put tremendous strain on their existing relationships. The family member can quickly become overwhelmed by the additional responsibilities and time commitments. This situation can lead to feelings of resentment on behalf of the caregiver. Meanwhile, the care recipient (mom or dad) may experience guilt and diminished self-worth for shifting this burden on an adult child.
A personal care provider is the perfect solution for everyone.
Home Care Partners, LLC provides experienced, compassionate and dependable caregivers selected to provide our clients with loving care and home assistance, and to provide their families with peace of mind. When needed, our agency also provides services to individuals who may reside in an assisted living or nursing home facility.
Make the call that can improve your life or that of a loved one. Contact us today @ 781 378 2164 to inquire about our affordable rates and to find a solution that fits your budgetary needs and your lifestyle. Options include 24 hour live-in care or private duty hourly care for personalized assistance for homebound seniors in eastern Massachusetts.
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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