Busting Common Home Care Misconceptions
Over the years, home care has evolved from attending to the needs of seniors sick at home to more of a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of older adults. As more and more seniors are wishing to age in place, home care is a valuable solution that can help them achieve that goal.
Although the concept of home care has gained recognition in recent years, there are still many misconceptions about what it truly entails. Visiting Angels Oshkosh is here to help seniors and their families better understand home care so that they can make informed decisions about their care or the care of an aging loved one. Below are four common misconceptions about home care and the truth behind them.
Misconception Number 1: Home Care is Only for the Old-Old
Most people view home care as something that only the oldest old population needs. Although many older seniors benefit significantly from home care services, home care actually caters to a wide range of demographics. It can support adults with disabilities and individuals recovering from surgeries and ensure that younger seniors age gracefully. Home care addresses a variety of care needs, too, from assistance with personal care and light housekeeping to preventing loneliness and isolation through companionship. The elder care provided by Visiting Angels Oshkosh is designed for a variety of stages of aging. Whether you’re just entering your golden years and want someone to check in with you weekly, or you’re getting older and need more support to manage everyday tasks, we’re here for you.
Misconception Number 2: Home Care is Isolating
Another misconception about home care is that it isolates the person receiving care. Although home care services allow a senior to age in place, utilizing home care services does not mean that a senior is homebound or remains at home 24/7. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Home care services actually prevent senior isolation and negate feelings of loneliness and depression. At Visiting Angels Oshkosh, our professional caregivers can escort seniors on outings, ensuring they stay engaged in the community. They can provide transportation to senior activities happening at the Oshkosh Senior Center or arrange for them to participate in fitness classes at the Oshkosh Community YMCA. Our caregivers work hard to build a genuine companionship with each of their clients. They get to know their clients’ interests and hobbies and find unique ways to keep them engaged in their leisure pursuits.
Misconception Number 3: Home Costs Too Much
Unfortunately, many seniors and their families immediately rule out home care because they believe this next misconception: that it simply costs too much. However, home care expenses vary greatly and are determined by individual needs and services required. When compared to the cost of moving to a senior living community, home care is actually cost-effective. Some long-term care policies may even provide coverage for some home care services, which can help offset the overall costs. Paying for Senior Care is a valuable webpage that can help residents in Wisconsin better understand the costs of home care and compare that with other care options. Wisconsin Veterans Benefits explains more about what aid is available to eligible veterans in Wisconsin. At Visiting Angels Oshkosh, we work diligently with each senior and their family to develop a plan of care that addresses the care needs and stays within the budget. Our home care is affordable without sacrificing quality of care.
Misconception Number 4: Home Care is Only For Seniors Who Have No Support
The last misconception about home care is that it’s only for seniors who lack a support network. However, home care can greatly benefit seniors who have a strong support system. Home care can supplement areas where their support network is lacking. It can also help establish boundaries so that family members remain family members and seniors maintain their autonomy. Unfortunately, some families neglect reaching out to home care companies when their aging loved one’s care needs increase. They continue to remain the primary caregiver, putting their health at risk. As part of our home care services, Visiting Angels Oshkosh offers respite care services. This is the perfect solution for seniors who have a strong support network yet need temporary support while their family caregiver takes a break.
Visiting Angels Oshkosh is committed to helping seniors and their families make informed decisions about home care. Our approach to home care is holistic. We aim to enhance the overall well-being and independence of each of our clients while keeping them safe and comfortable in their own homes. Our professional and compassionate caregivers are available to assist with a variety of care tasks, including light housekeeping, transportation, meal planning and preparation, and meaningful conversation. To learn more about us or to schedule a free consultation, please contact us today by calling 920-312-7000.