A common misconception among our aging population is that there is a closing window of time for when you can hire a professional in-home caregiver. If you miss that window, it could be too late, and the only alternative is to move into a retirement community. While this is one option that can certainly play out in reality, it is far from the only option. And more importantly, it’s simply not true that there is any strict time frame or “window” for when you can incorporate the care of a professional to help an aging loved one live longer, safer, and more comfortably in their home. Keep reading to learn why it’s never too late to hire an in-home caregiver!

Care is provided on a continuous spectrum.

One of the best aspects of in-home care is that services are uniquely designed to meet the needs of each client. This can begin with simply providing companionship and help with simple tasks like keeping the home organized, or prepping meals. Then, as needs change, a professional caregiver can increase their skills and services to assist with mobility, bathing, dressing, and keeping the house clean and safe. This flexibility in services means that it’s almost never too late to hire an in-home caregiver, and it’s always worth a conversation to learn more.

In-home care can help bridge the gap.

Is your loved one in need of assistance sometimes, but not all the time? Was there a recent injury or illness they’re recovering from, and do they need some temporary assistance? These are great examples of how an in-home caregiver can step in when needed, provide the right level of service, and adjust services as needed – either increasing or decreasing. Again, this means that it’s never too late to add in the assistance of a professional caregiver whenever you feel it might be needed!

It’s a financial and emotional decision.

If you’re an adult child who is responsible for the care of an aging parent, it’s important to keep in mind that the decision is as much emotional as it is financial when it comes to having them age in their home or move into an assisted living facility. What do they want? What is best for their emotional state? What can they afford? It’s a big step to move them from their home, sell all their belongings, and start a new live in an unfamiliar place. It’s a big financial commitment as well! Starting with adding in the services of a professional in-home caregiver can be less taxing emotionally and financially, and allows you to take things step by step.

Making a decision sooner is better.

All of that said, it’s worth emphasizing that the sooner you can take action and determine whether the help of an in-home caregiver could be beneficial – the better. It’s always smart to start exploring options early, educate yourself on what an in-home caregiver can provide and the associated costs, and start speaking with local professional caregiver companies, like Ella Home Care. We can provide answers, recommendations, and give you peace of mind. Whenever you’re ready to decide, you’ll be that much further ahead in the process!

Do you want to learn more about the benefits of hiring a professional in-home caregiver? Let’s talk today! Leave a comment below or contact us here. We look forward to hearing from you.

When a loved one grows older, becomes ill, or has an injury that requires them to have additional assistance in order to comfortably and safely live in their home, hiring a professional caregiver can be an ideal solution. Not only does this allow the person to continue living in their home, with the comforts and conveniences they are used to, but it also gives family members the peace of mind knowing a professional caregiver is with them and checking in on a regular basis to ensure they have everything they need. Best of all, the degree to which the help of a caregiver is needed to change and adjust as often as needed, unlike more permanent solutions like moving to a retirement community or nursing home. Keep reading to learn how a professional caregiver relationship can help families care for their aging loved ones while evolving to keep up with their needs.

Assessing Current Needs – One of the best aspects of working with a professional caregiver is that our engagement with a client always begins with a comprehensive assessment of their current needs. This involves a caring conversation of areas of concern or struggle, speaking to both the client and any loved ones who are involved in the process. Over the first several weeks of providing care, our skilled professional caregivers pay attention to all the details that impact a client’s care, adjusting our services and recommendations accordingly.

Paying Attention to Changes – And in the same vein as paying attention to a client’s needs during the first few weeks of working together, our caregivers continue to assess and update the level of care needed at certain milestones along the way. Should anything change the level of care needed, we are quick to adjust the services we provide as well as inform the client and family so they can decide what course of action is best. Should more care be needed, we’re here to help!

Providing Expert Advice – In all the years we have been caring for clients we have gained valuable knowledge. We understand what to look for and what steps are likely to come next in the continuum of care. We make honest recommendations and can answer the tough questions family members may have about the wellness and progress of their loved ones. We truly strive to be the eyes and ears of our clients’ families so they feel informed and connected.

Care that Fits Your Lifestyle – At Ella Home Care, we pride ourselves on meeting people wherever they are in their skills and abilities to care for themselves. This could mean working with independent people who simply need someone to check in once a week or every few days, to offer some company, and help with more physically demanding tasks. For others, this may mean around-the-clock care and assisting with the very basics of hygiene and mobility. We do it all while offering kindness, dignity, and respect to everyone we interface with. Simply put, it’s our job to help aging adults stay in their homes as long as they desire, safely and happily.

Do you or a loved one need in-home assistance with tasks like cooking, cleaning, bathing, or other household activities? A professional caregiver could be a wonderful asset to assist in these areas! Contact Ella Home Care today to learn more and speak with one of our friendly staff.