By 2019, about 16.5% of the American population was 65 years and above. These people are less mobile and spend much of their time at home alone. In many cases, they suffer from boredom, isolation, and depression, making their emotional life difficult. They also experience age-associated changes in cognition, which may significantly interfere with daily functioning. Further, many of them have a wide variety of chronic conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, or diabetes. Hearing impairment and visual changes are also common during old age. Since some of them require around-the-clock care, personal care services are essential.
What Is Personal Care?
Personal care services assist the elderly with day-to-day activities that they can't perform on their own. Often, sick or elderly persons are assisted with activities of daily living (ADLs). If you don't want to transfer your aged parent to a nursing home or assisted living facility, you should consider personal care services.
The most common personal care services offered include:
- Grooming
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Toileting
- Mobility
- Eating and meal preparation
- Medication reminders
What Are the Benefits of Personal Care Services?
Previously, personal care was provided by family caregivers, mainly the elderly person's children. However, times have changed, and you can now hire personal care assistants or home health aides to care for your aging or ailing parent.
Here are the three main reasons why you should engage a personal care agency or private personal care providers:
They Can Stand in the Gap
It's hectic to look after your aged parent, especially if you are busy with work or other family obligations. However, a caregiver can be there when you are not available. In other words, you can relax and have peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in good hands.
Your Loved Can Stay at Home
Most older adults have a great connection with their homes. Thus, taking them to a nursing home can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which may cause depression. However, outsourcing personal care services ensure that your aged loved one receives help and companionship at the comfort of their home.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Personal care services are vital for people who need 24-hour care and those who need only a little help. When seniors are assisted with ADLs, their quality of life is significantly enhanced. Nothing makes them happier than maintaining their independence.
Conclusion
Being a caregiver is not an easy task. Sometimes, you barely have time for yourself since you spend most of your time on caregiving duties. Also, you could suffer from emotional and physical stress. However, you don't have to do it alone. Contact a local personal care service to learn more.
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