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Tag: In Home Care

What is Respite Care?

Primary caregivers hold the responsibility of caring for a loved one, such as an elderly or disabled parent. They act as a supportive role in a person’s life, helping them with important tasks at home and understanding certain everyday needs. However, the encumbrance of caregiving may be overwhelming and tiresome for some, which is why primary caregivers turn to respite care. Learn more about respite care and what it involves by reading our blog.

Definition

“Respite care provides temporary relief for a primary caregiver, enabling you to take a much-needed break from the demands of caregiving a sick, aging, or disabled family member,” according to HelpGuide. The purpose of respite care, as mentioned in the previous statement, is a way for primary caregivers to be reprieved from caring for a loved one for a period of time. Whether that be a couple of hours each day or taking a short vacation, respite is an important resource.

Services

One of the ways a caregiver can get relief is with an in-home care service. Whether these visits are scheduled on a regular or occasional basis, in-home respite provides an opportunity for loved ones to be cared for in the comfort of their home. A trained staff member can perform duties such as meal prep, shopping, housekeeping, bathing, feeding, and even medical care. Some home care companies have specialty services available too, so call ahead to inquire.

Arrangement

Having resources for respite can make a difference for a primary caregiver. HelpGuide states “while finding and arranging respite care sounds like a lot of work, it’s important to remember that respite is not just a service, it’s an effect that comes from taking breaks from the stresses of caregiving.” Caregivers can schedule times, plan breaks, and make accommodations if necessary.

Conclusion

At Home Instead Senior Care, we provide in-home respite care for the elderly that gives you a break from caregiving. A well-designed respite program provides these breaks on a regular, scheduled basis. For more information on our respite care program in Wilmington, NC, please call us at (910) 342-0455 or visit our website here.

Assisted Living Professionals: HHAs versus HCAs

As adults begin to mature, performing simple tasks may become increasingly difficult. In an effort to hold on to their independence and pride, families may choose in-home assisted living services rather than a nursing or retirement home.

This option has proven to be a great choice for senior citizens due to the fact that they can maintain a bit of control while still receiving the quality help that they require. Additional aid will also be needed if your loved one is injured or has other disabilities.

While we’ve established that assisted living is an excellent option for your loved one, you may wonder which type of health care professional is best for your senior. Below, we’ll help you make sense of your options!

HHAs

HHAs are certified professionals and help with tasks such as checking vitals. The first type of assisted living professional is known as an HHA or a home health aide. These caregivers do not function as nurses but they are certified and knowledgeable in their field. Their tasks include but are not limited to administering medicine, changing bandages, and checking vitals.

HHAs are usually provided by Medicare affiliated agencies. Because of this, they are required to follow laws put in place by the government. If you’re considering going this route, it is imperative to do your research and ensure that your professional is indeed coming from a reputable agency. Not all establishments are created equal.

HCAs

Secondly, you have HCAs or home care aides. These care providers are different in that they are hired out by the family and not a Medicare certified An HCA will handle matters such as finances and hygiene. agency. In this event, it is important that this person can be trusted as if they were a part of your own family. Your HCA will be handling more personal tasks such as hygiene, cooking, finances, and more. Again, it is important to look into your potential candidate’s credentials. Background checking is highly recommended due to the nature of their responsibilities.

Conclusion

Choosing assisted living is a big step that can be hard for many to accept. However, if that is the decision that is best for you and your family, then knowing your options is key. Now that you are armed with the necessary information, you are better equipped to choose the companion that best suits your loved one’s needs. Whether your senior citizen is in need of more or less attention, there’s a caregiver out there for you!