Experienced, Compassionate Legal Guidance For The Issues Of Aging

Is home health care right for you?

On Behalf of | Jan 3, 2016 | Care Planning

Home health care has grown in popularity over the last several years. Aging seniors and their families are opting to live their senior years in the comfort of their own home over being a resident in a long-term care facility. As great as in-home care sounds, it is not the right choice for everyone. Determining if you are a good candidate for in-home care takes serious consideration of many different aspects including overall health, living conditions and financial resources. Consideration of these elements may take the help of an attorney, medical professional and family members.

A senior facing a serious medical condition may not benefit from in-home care. Unlike an individual that only needs help with the most basic activities of daily living, seniors with serious medical concerns may require a more dynamic and intensive care plan. Even without a serious illness or medical concern, an individual taking numerous medications or requiring daily therapy or treatments may also not be a good candidate for in-home care.

In-home care allows a senior to stay in their home and receive the care they need. The ability to remain in their own home may provide them with a sense of independence that might not be present if they were the resident of a long-term care facility. There are, however, issues regarding their safety while at home that should be considered. An aging body may be less able to climb stairs, stand at the kitchen sink or get in and out of the bathtub. While in-home care professionals may be able to help with many of these tasks, some may be limited in their ability to do so.

Long-term care has become somewhat of a lucrative business. Residents and their loved ones can be expected to pay anywhere between $30,000 and $100,000 per year for care. Depending on a seniors needs, hiring a private in-home care professional will likely be much more affordable.

Care planning is a complex task and typically requires the help of many experienced professionals. For the best care plan that meets your needs, consider speaking to an elder law attorney.

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