The appeal of home care lies in that first word: home. Recovering from illness or coping with loss of basic abilities are tough enough to deal with. How much less traumatizing it is to receive the care you need in the comfort and familiarity of your own home.
Handling medical needs in a home setting
Home care is appropriate for people who are recovering from illness but no longer need hospitalization or nursing home care. It also is used by people with disabilities or those who are terminally ill and need therapeutic or medical treatment.
Nursing care might include intravenous therapy, injections, and wound treatment. Physical therapists, speech therapists, and dietitians also might be part of a medical care team.
Basic care has a special role
Home care services also are available for people who need help with daily living activities such as eating, dressing, and bathing, as well as basic household duties. While some people might need constant care and companionship, others require only light “maintenance-style” household upkeep and periodic well-being checks.
Personality is an important part of choosing these aides. While a patient might not be as particular about who provides an injection, for example, someone who helps with bathing is providing much more intimate assistance and it is vital that there be mutual comfort and respect.
Source:aoa.gov
Source:seniorliving.about.com
