Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

What Is Home Health Care And How Does It Work?

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There are many things that fall under the heading of home health care agencies and understanding what it is or how it applies to you is not always clear. In recent years, home health care is becoming more common and has opened up more possibilities for the aging or people needing post-hospital care. You may find that home health care is a good fit for your situation but you might be surprised what can fall under the title.

Non-medical Care

This is one thing that people don't always consider when they think of home health care but is part of it. Non-medical home care can include day to day activities for someone who cannot take care of themselves, It might include things like bathing for an aging adult that can't get into a tub or stand in a shower alone anymore. Sometimes it is simple tasks like dressing themselves or help with feeding for an adult that cannot physically hold utensils to eat on their own. Whatever the tasks, non-medical care can be anything that is not directly related to an illness, condition, or medical procedure that requires help to do.

Respite Care

Respite care is a little different but could be medical or nonmedical care. In most cases, respite care is provided so an in-home caregiver can take some time away from their role. It can be a simple as having someone come in to take over the daily tasks while a family member that has been providing care takes a break for a day. When you provide care for a loved one at home, there are times when you just need to take a break and relax. Respite care is there to provide that break. It is short-term and can be at home or can be provided in an assisted living facility.

Post-Surgical Recovery

Hospitals are more overtaxed now than ever before and in some cases, recovery times from an injury or surgery can take weeks or months. In an effort to make the recovery easier, home recovery is possible if you have a family member that can provide some care and are in a service area for a visit nurse or care agency. The agency will send a nurse out daily to change dressings, check on your recovery, and help with medications. They may also provide CNA services for bathing or other needs to help the patient recover as they would in the hospital. Recovering at home is not right for every situation but it can be very comfortable for the patient and will save them money over the cost of recovering in the hospital.

Hospice Care

The care for someone who is in the final stages of a terminal illness is hard work and while the family can often provide supportive care, they may need help for some things. Managing things like medications or monitoring the health or progression of the disease is best left to a trained medical professional. A nurse that specializes in hospice care can make those final months, weeks, or days a lot easier for the patient and the caregiver. Home hospice care can be very hard on the family but with the right support system, it can be the most comfortable way for the patient to spend their last days.


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About Me

Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

While it's true that aging and illness used to go in hand, today's medical advancements now mean we don't have to settle for that eventuality anymore. I'm already considering the aging process although I'm still middle aged because I intend to enjoy my later years with the best health possible. Living well and aging gracefully aren't just about maintaining your appearance, but also feeling as good as you can as you get older. I'm sharing what I discover in my personal quest with everyone here on this convenient website so we can all join together to cross into the golden years with our health intact.