It’s a question you almost always put off answering until it’s something you need to decide right now. Who will care for Mom or Dad when they’re older? It may start off as a gradual process where children or other family members step in to provide various degrees of home care. As these visits become more frequent, stress, tension and worry may also increase. Finally you find yourself in a situation where you know something needs to change. Your loved one deserves the best possible care and you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of that.

This is where professional home care can help re-balance the roles of family and caregivers. Take a look at the following reasons why everyone benefits from the decision to use professional home care.

For the Loved One

Maintain dignity – The one being cared for will benefit from the ability to maintain his or her dignity, even while mental and physical capabilities decline. They are able to stay in the comfort of their home, safer and longer than they could without outside care. The one-on-one care also ensures they have the complete attention of the caregiver and receive personalized assistance and companionship.

Preserve quality of life – With the assistance of professional home care, the loved one will enjoy a great quality of life. They will have someone to assist them in their favorite activities, whether that’s a walk outside or playing a board game. They will also have someone to keep them mentally and emotionally engaged. A professional caregiver can also increase quality of life by being present to prevent or quickly address a fall or injury.

Professional and compassionate care – Professional caregivers chose their career in home care because of their professional approach to care and their compassion for helping others. Especially if thrown into the role suddenly, a family member may not be as prepared for or passionate about providing long-term care for a loved one. Calling upon a professional to assist with home care preserves the family roles of children and parents.

Stability and consistency – A family member serving as a caregiver is a kind and self-less act. However, it’s completely understandable that there will come a point where that person needs a break. It’s not a lack of love, it’s a lack of endurance. Providing care to an aging loved one is taxing both physically and emotionally. A professional caregiver provides stability and consistency to the loved one. There’s a routine they can count on and there will never be a lapse in care.

For their Family

Reduced stress and worry – Foremost, the family will benefit from less stress and worry about the loved one’s quality of care and arranging schedules to make sure someone is checking in regularly. There’s peace of mind in knowing that a loved one is receiving professional and compassionate care that goes beyond just meeting physical needs, but also mental and emotional needs as well.

More time to focus on your relationship – Possibly the greatest benefit is the re-balance in the relationship between the loved one and family members. When children are solely responsible for taking care of their aging parents, it can feel like a job. With professional home care covering the day-to-day responsibilities, the family has more time to focus their visits on making memories and deepening the relationship.

An affordable solution – According to the National Association of Home Care, the average cost of care from a skilled nursing facility is $544 dollars per day, while the average cost of home health care per visit is $132 dollars. Home care is a lot more affordable than you might think! Besides, a solution that allows a family to fully enjoy their time with one another, without added stress or worry, is an invaluable investment.

What do you feel would be the greatest benefit of having home care for a loved one? Share your thoughts or personal experience by leaving a comment below!