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CARE RESOURCES

Is Home Care Right for Me?

It’s natural to want to stay at home as you grow older. In most cases, home is where we feel most comfortable and secure.  However, taking a step back to look at the big picture can help you decide whether staying at home for the long term is the right step for you. Your home situation is unique and several factors will weigh in on the best choice for you.  The key to maintaining independent living is recognizing the signs that a loved one may need help and receiving the right kind of care to support those needs.

Home Care may be ideal for you if:

  • you need assistance for a few hours a day, perhaps while a family caregiver is unavailable

  • you are struggling to accomplish some of the more labor intensive tasks, like bathing and transfers

  • you need assistance with your activities of daily living

  • you have started to withdraw from social interactions

  • you're noticing unusual behavior, such as increased agitation, speaking loudly or limited talking

  • you're neglecting personal care, such as hygiene or nutrition

  • you notice signs of forgetfulness in your home, like piles of unopened mail, unwashed laundry and scorched or dirty cookware

  • you're having difficulty in the management of your personal finances and noticing things like unpaid bills or unusual purchases

  • you're having difficulty in the management of your medications and doctors appointments

  • it's become difficult or impossible for you to leave home without help

Home Care may not be ideal for you if:

  • your home is in a rural or difficult to reach location

  • your home is dangerous for you to stay in and/or not easily modified for safety

  • you no longer wish to be burdened with the maintenance of your home

  • you are far from family, friends, community services and activities

Other significant factors include:

  • your doctor's recommendation, relative to your medical conditions

  • your family caregiver's recommendation, relative to their availability and limitations in your care

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