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When is Home Health Care an Option?

Is Home Health Care for Your Loved One?

There are many reasons to give home health care a closer look, as the benefits are many. Your loved one is provided with the best in health care, increased independence by being allowed to stay living in their home, and an increase in quality of life. However, home health care is not an option for all aging patients. Check out this list to learn whether or not your loved one is eligible for home health care in your area:

  • Accessibility: Is the home within a reasonable distance from health care providers? If your loved one will still enjoy a reasonable amount of independence, can he or she walk safely to stores and social events without having to drive? Social activity is important for your loved one, and if he or she no longer has access to social opportunities, then an assisted living center may be a better option. Do loved ones who are willing to care for your aging loved one live nearby? If not, then staying at home as one ages is not a viable option.
  • Home safety: Many homes are simply impractical and dangerous for the elderly. If the home has a lot of stairs, an uneven, hilly yard, or is located in an isolated area, then the home is probably not ideal for home health care and relocation to an assisted living center is for the best. If the home can be easily modified with a few minor changes (such as a renovated bathroom and the addition of a ramp outside) then it is a good place for your loved one to stay as they age.
  • Physical limitations: In many instances a desire to remain at home must be overlooked in order to account for a patient’s physical needs. If your loved one is not able to be left alone for any period of time, or their health is such that they cannot get around on their own at all, then remaining at home is not a safe option. Home health care professionals can provide therapy, companionship, and help with many basic activities such as hygiene and meals. They will also monitor your loved one’s progress and their emotional and physical health. This support given a few hours each day or week can be exactly what is needed in order to alleviate your anxiety, decrease your worries, and keep your loved one healthy and happy!
  • Finances: Your budget will largely determine whether or not your loved one goes to an assisted living center or stays at home and receives home health care. On average, home health care is the cheapest form of senior care in Portland, though your loved one’s independence level determines the amount of care that is necessary. Most home health care services are billed by the hour, and if your loved one is in need of care throughout the majority of the day, then home health care services will quickly become a very expensive option.