Do you have a loved one who is starting to show signs of dementia, Alzheimer’s or reduced motor function? Many Americans find themselves searching for elderly care at home in order to support family members or close friends who are struggling with the onset debilitating conditions that follow old age. With institutions offering regular healthcare and elderly communities encouraging better emotional and mental wellness, it can be difficult to know which option to choose. Read below to learn a little more about elderly care at home, home health care products and why it may be the best option for you and your family member.
How Is The American Population Faring?
Ongoing studies have found the United States’ population to be older than it ever has been. An estimated 12 million Americans needed long-term care back in 2007 and that number is only expected to grow over the following few years. This has a noticeable impact on families as well as the living situations of individuals and partners alike, causing many to seek out getting help at home.
What Are Common Conditions?
Chronic conditions can make independence and financial organization difficult for some individuals. Thankfully, elderly care at home and similar services can help immensely with this. Some of the most common conditions facing elderly and disabled persons in America are reduced motor control, Alzheimer’s, dementia, lower back pain and mental illness. One in three seniors will pass away with some form of Alzheimer’s or dementia as the cause.
What Is Long-Term Care?
People search for elderly care at home in order to provide their loved ones with the long-term solutions they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life in their later years. According to ongoing studies over eight million people receive support from five main long-term care services in the United States — home health agencies and nursing homes are the most common, while hospices, residential care communities and adult day service centers follow suit.
What About Healthcare?
Healthcare is one of the most important issues facing Americans of all ages and backgrounds, though the elderly find themselves struggling with the additional need of consistent day-to-day support. The year 2010 saw those over the age of 65 spending nearly $19,000 per person on personal health care costs. According to a study by Age Wave, most people will vastly underestimate the likelihood they will need long-term care — while around 37% of people over the age of 50 believe they will need long-term care, that number is closer to nearly 70%.
How Can Senior Citizen Home Care Help?
In home elderly care is one of many methods available to the elderly population in the United States. They help with day-to-day activities, encourage mental wellness and provide independence that might not be possible otherwise. As of February of 2015 the vast majority of elderly people receiving assistance, at nearly 80%, will live in private homes within communities rather than institutions. A recent survey even found 81% of retirees citing good health as the most important ingredient for a happy individual. With elderly care at home, anything is possible.