Resources Help Seniors Stay at Home
To most seniors, staying at home is preferable to moving to an assisted living or nursing care facility. Yet, more and more, seniors are less confident with this decision, according to a recent survey of adults 64 and older.
This drop in confidence may in part be attributed to the current administration's decision to repeal the Affordable Health Act, leaving the longevity of Medicare in question. Still, there are many resources available today that enable those who decide to receive at home health care. These include new technologies to manage medications and routines, as well as many available services that make living at home easier than ever. Here are a few:
1. Groceries and essential needs - Many local supermarkets now offer online shopping and delivery services, eliminating the need to travel and carry back heavy packages. There is usually a nominal delivery fee, but some chains offer free first-time delivery, or reduced fees with prepaid terms. Online merchants like Amazon, offer free delivery for purchases of $50 or more, with a membership in Amazon Fresh ($14.99/month), providing same or next day delivery of grocery essentials and Whole Foods favorites.
2. Devices such as smartphones and iPads can now be used to monitor and manage at-home healthcare. From applications that record and track medications to wearable devices that can signal loved ones in case of emergency, the use of technology has become paramount to at-home care.
Interfaces like Skype and Facetime also allow loved ones to stay connected, providing greater peace of mind to patients and family members.
3. Senior centers and daycare facilities offer respite to caregivers and an opportunity for seniors to interact and socialize with others. Check your local community center for a schedule of activities that may appeal to you.
To learn more about at-home care options, and for help finding a certified, bonded home health aide (HHA), therapist or skilled RN, visit our website.
