Discover how initiating in-home care at an early stage can lead to significant cost savings for seniors by promoting a healthier, more independent lifestyle.
Understanding the Basics of Early In-Home Care
As a senior, I can certainly relate to the reluctance of accepting advice from my children, especially when it comes to decisions about my well-being. We seniors are generally an independent bunch, and it’s not easy to have our children take on a “parenting” role with us. However, as the owner of a home care business for nearly 20 years, I can see the other side of the situation. When someone experiences a significant life event, like losing a spouse or suffering a stroke or fall, it’s crucial to consider making changes that can help them stay healthier for longer.
Early in-home care focuses on non-medical assistance for seniors in their own homes, often including companionship, shopping, medication reminders, and encouraging exercise. Caregivers can make these activities enjoyable by involving seniors in them. For example, they might spend an hour preparing meals together, discussing the senior's favorite recipes, and having the senior participate in simple tasks like peeling potatoes. These seemingly small activities help seniors feel engaged and maintain a sense of independence, which can lead to increased interest in other activities and a general sense of happiness. When seniors are happy, they’re more likely to take care of their health by exercising, eating well, and taking their medications as prescribed.
The Financial Benefits of Preventative In-Home Care
Starting in-home care early allows potential health issues to be identified before they become serious problems. This proactive approach ensures that seniors receive the right care at the right time, preventing complications and costly hospitalizations. The most expensive care often comes from intensive services, but having someone—whether it’s a professional caregiver, family member, or friend—regularly visit the home can be key to avoiding this.
Families are often too busy to provide consistent care, so a home care company might be a good option. The cost is more manageable when care is started early, perhaps with visits two times per week for a few hours each time. This also allows family members to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones, rather than being burdened with chores like cleaning and cooking. Imagine visiting and sharing a meal that Mom prepared with the caregiver—that time becomes more about connection than responsibility.
Preventative in-home care can lead to significant cost savings by reducing the need for more expensive medical interventions, such as hospital stays and emergency room visits. By keeping seniors healthy and active, you can avoid the high costs associated with treating chronic illnesses and acute health issues. Early in-home care also helps seniors manage their medications effectively, reducing the risk of medication errors and adverse drug reactions. This not only improves their overall health but also saves money on unnecessary medical treatments.
The cost of delaying in-home care can be substantial. For instance, rehospitalizations under Medicare can be extremely expensive. Studies show that seniors who receive early in-home care are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital, leading to significant cost savings for both families and the healthcare system. Many seniors are surprised to learn that Medicare may not cover rehabilitation at a transitional care unit following a rehospitalization.
Case Studies: Success Stories of Early In-Home Care
Take the story of our client, Marilyn J., a senior who started receiving in-home care shortly after her retirement. Marilyn struggled to maintain her home on her own, but with regular visits from a caregiver, she was able to maintain her independence, manage her heart issues and diabetes effectively, and avoid costly hospital visits. Her family also gained peace of mind knowing she was well cared for. Her care was a combination of family support on weekends and agency caregivers who visited twice a week. While the family spent weekends taking her out to visit friends and shop, her agency caregivers assisted with meal prep, light housekeeping, and appointments. They also spent time doing crafts, which helped Marilyn build a bond with her caregivers.
Another example is John E., a married man with early-stage dementia. Early in-home care allowed him to stay in familiar surroundings, significantly improving his cognitive function and reducing the financial burden on his family. His wife was his primary caregiver but needed time to take care of her own social and personal needs. Once the caregivers got to know John, they engaged him in activities he enjoyed, such as building birdhouses, taking walks, and gardening. One caregiver even shared his love for playing pool, which became a regular activity that left John feeling calm and content. Thanks to this support, John was able to stay in his home until he passed away from Alzheimer's.
Starting Early is Good for Everyone
If your senior loved one is fortunate enough to have the financial resources to pay for care, starting early is an excellent way to maintain both their health and independence. This proactive approach can lead to better family interactions and help preserve financial stability for potential future needs.
