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In this article, we’ll cover the following:
Home care refers to various services that help increase independence for seniors living at home and “aging in place.” Often, seniors who utilize home care are independent and can partially or fully manage their own care. Those in assisted living homes may require more assistance with daily living activities.
Palliative care refers to a specific at-home therapy for a chronic illness or injury. This includes things like at-home physical therapy and speech-language pathology after a stroke. This may be short-term or long-term and can help with specific healthcare needs. Private nursing care is another option if your loved one needs more in-depth medical help on a regular basis.
Home health care is a type of home care specific to health needs. This is often a nurse, therapist, or professional aide who comes to the house and can assist with daily living and medical activities, such as going to the bathroom, getting in and out of bed, and handling basic health concerns.
Companion care is a type of care that focuses less on health and more on daily tasks. This is a form of long-term care for those who need assistance with activities like cooking,
GoGoGrandparent is a supplemental home care service. For seniors aging in place, GoGo can even be their primary form of home care. We offer safe transportation options, grocery and meal delivery, prescription delivery, and professional home services – all to ensure your life is comfortable, easy, and safe.
Many adults prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible. Home care in-house allows seniors to receive care in comfortable and familiar surroundings, which can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of independence and well-being.
Seniors can maintain the routines they’ve built in their home over the years, which helps with a sense of security. They know which routes to take to get to the grocery store, they remember where everything is in the kitchen, they’ve grown a garden in the yard, and they like the familiar sounds of that one creaky floorboard.
Because home care helps maintain autonomy and independence, it may also slow mental and physical decline. Even with part- or full-time home care assistance, senior adults who live in their own house tend to have more responsibilities than those that live in an assisted living facility. (Seniors in assisted living facilities have many of their needs cared for, like cooking and cleaning.) Keeping the mind and body active with these daily responsibilities and chores is essential to slowing cognitive decline and maintaining self-dignity.
One reason so many senior adults love GoGoGrandparent is that it provides flexibility with how to accomplish these daily tasks. For example, if they want to cook most of their own meals but want to take a break on the weekends, they can order fresh, healthy takeout with our GoGoGourmet option. If they love cooking but hate going to the grocery store, they can get their groceries delivered with GoGoGrocery. GoGoGrandparent takes home care to the next level by offering top-notch services that improve quality of life for seniors who live in their own home or an independent living facility.
Home care can be tailored entirely to the needs of your loved one. You can customize their home care based on their medical and health conditions, daily activities, schedule, routines, and more. This also allows for more flexibility for seniors to choose their services, so they can create a lifestyle around their unique needs and wants.
Home care allows seniors to maintain the same social circles with friends and family, which is hugely beneficial to mental and emotional well-being. They can continue going to their bridge clubs, religious organizations, charity events, bingo nights, etc. GoGo’s Transportation service helps by giving seniors freedom of movement while still offering safe, reliable rides, protected by our caring GoGoGuardians.
If your loved one does not require extensive medical care, part-time home care along with GoGoGrandparent services are often more affordable than assisted living facilities. We’ll discuss the cost of home care more below.
Home care isn’t suitable for everyone, though. Here are some reasons you may not want to use home care instead of an assisted living facility:
GoGoGrandparent helps ease this pressure with our Family Features dashboard, so you can help manage your loved one’s rides, prescriptions, groceries, meals, and home care.
Home care costs can vary drastically depending on the level and type of care. Home care is generally a more affordable option if your parent only needs occasional assistance with daily or medical activities. However, if your loved one requires specialized medical care or treatment, an assisted living facility might be the safer and more economical choice in some cases.
There’s no set number for home much in-home care costs. It can range from the cost of GoGoGrandparent services to the salary of a live-in physical aide. So, you’ll want to do some research and a cost analysis to see if home care is a more cost-effective option.
For those seniors who only need partial home care services, GoGoGrandparent is an affordable way to have access to safe, reliable help without paying for a home care aid.
Assisted living is a type of senior care in a community setting. It was invented in the 1970s by Dr. Keren Brown Wilson for her mom. The idea was that as you get older, it’s harder to drive safely, eat good food, get your groceries, etc. Instead of hiring a driver, a chef and a personal assistant for just yourself - Dr. Wilson hired them for her mom and all her friends, and moved them into the same building to split the costs. If you move into assisted living, you or your loved one will move out of their current house into an apartment or private room at the assisted living facility. These facilities help with daily activities like meals, laundry, and transportation. For example, chefs cook the residents’ meals, laundry is done within the building, and there may be shuttle routes from the facility to local spots.
Assisted living facilities focus more on daily and social activities and generally don’t include medical aid. Nursing homes are a type of assisted living facility that focuses more on medical care.
Assisted living facilities are often not the first choice for seniors. Here are some of the reasons why:
Assisted living costs vary greatly depending on where you live, your insurance, the type of facility, the services available, and any add-ons. The average cost of assisted living communities runs between $1,000 and $9,000 monthly, not including medical care costs. However, that’s just an average. Some nursing homes with medical care can be upwards of $8,000 to $15,000 a month. For high-end assisted living centers with rooms that could rival your loved one’s current home, it can be in the tens of thousands of dollars each month.
Before feeling overwhelmed about deciding, we recommend finding out the cost of assisted living facilities in your area. Conduct an analysis of the services, preferences, and costs of an assisted living facility versus home care services.
Medicare usually will not pay for any “custodial care.” This refers to daily tasks like eating, cooking, bathing, or dressing. That means Medicare usually won’t cover companion care or GoGoGrandparent. It may, however, cover any nursing or therapist costs for your at-home care. Medicare may also cover expenses related to healthcare, such as transportation to doctors’ appointments, prescription delivery, and other health services.
This also means that Medicare won’t cover assisted living facilities, which are primarily considered custodial care. However, like with home care, Medicare may cover some health-related expenses incurred while at the assisted living facility.
It’s best to chat with a Medicare representative to get more information about your Medicare plan’s benefits.
When Dr. Wilson invented Assisted Living for her mom, she created a system that would split the cost of a driver, a chef and care aids between the residents of her mom’s building. This made sense at the time, but today smartphones make it a 100x easier to split the cost of a driver, a chef and care aids between people that are choosing to continue living in their own homes, removing the need for people to moving into a shared assisted living facility. Research shows hospitalization and acute illnesses have also been associated with a decline in ADLs. In general, if a senior adult cannot do at least two of the following things by themselves, they are likely to end up in an assisted living facility within six months: transportation, meal curation, grocery management, medication management, home maintenance, finances/bills, and social life.
That’s why GoGoGrandparent’s mission is to make these tasks easier for senior adults. GoGoGrandparent offers services for those critical tasks that ensure seniors maintain their autonomy while still having safe, reliable help.
How can you use GoGoGrandparent to supplement your home care?
Best of all, seniors love that they don’t need an app to use GoGoGrandparent. Our telephone dial-in service makes it easy to use all these services with just the push of a button.
Learn more about how to use GoGoGrandparent as an extension of your care team here.
Choosing between home care and assisted living depends on your loved one’s needs and preferences. Make sure you chat with them before making a decision. They will want to be included in the decision-making process, and they will want to understand why you ultimately select one over the other.
We also recommend you check out our guide on independent living. Independent living is a great in-between option for those senior adults who want the community feel of an assisted living center while still retaining the independence and privacy of living in their own space.
Register for GoGoGrandparent. If you can’t decide if home care is the right option for your loved one, do a trial run to see how GoGo’s services can help aid and enhance their life. Many seniors find that with GoGo’s rides, meals, prescriptions, and home care, they may not even need to consider an assisted living facility.
Respite care is defined as the transfer of primary caregiving responsibilities to another person, typically a professional caregiver, relative or friend, in order for primary caregivers to receive temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities. Respite care takes many forms some family caregivers choose to have someone take on caregiver duties for a few hours a week or a few hours a day. Or, some schedule respite care for longer periods of time to accommodate an extended break or vacation. What You Need to Know When Caring for a Senior Loved One In its Caregiving in the U.S. report, AARP estimates that 39.8 million family members provided unpaid care to an adult in 2014 and 2015. And, the Centers for Disease Control reports that over half (53%) of caregivers indicated that a decline in their health compromises their ability to provide care. Caring for a senior loved one is both rewarding and challenging. Family caregivers need to remember that its important to take necessary breaks and practice self-care so they can ensure that they continue to find joy in their role.This can be particularly important for those caring for a senior that has a severe illness. A study led by the Stanford Center on Longevity and Stanford University Psychology Department, which was conducted with assistance from Comfort Keepers and Clear Care, found that for older family caregivers: Caring for a loved one with a mild illness generally leaves them in the same emotional state as their peers with emotional well-being generally greater than that of younger adults. When responsible for a loved one with a severe illness, reported emotional well-being tended to be lower than those of their peers. The cause of a decrease in emotional well-being is attributed to caregivers inability to pursue their social goals and friendships. The purpose of this study was to help identify the unique challenges and stressors that family caregivers face. As a partner in this research study, we reached out to the family members and decision-makers of approximately 2,000 Comfort Keepers clients. These results suggest that older people have higher emotional well-being than younger people but not when they have a relative with a severe illness. Not all older people with ailing relatives have low well-being; rather, it depends on the severity of the relative's ailment. Caring for a senior loved one can be fulfilling and can strengthen bonds within a family. But its important to recognize that being a family caregiver can come with feelings of loss, stress and physical strain. Caregivers risk their own health and wellbeing when they dont account for their own needs or take a break when necessary, and respite care provides a convenient solution for many families. Comfort Keepers Can Help Trusting your loved one with someone else can be difficult, but with Comfort Keepers, you can trust that he or she will be in capable hands. Our specially trained caregivers will stay with your loved one while you take care of yourself, for as much or as little time as you need. And, every client receives a custom care plan that aims to engage them in intellectual, physical and emotional exercises and activities. To learn more about our uplifting in-home and respite services, contact your nearest Comfort Keepers office today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Caregiving for Family and Friends A Public Health Issue. Web. 2019.AARP. Caregiving in the U.S., 2015 Report. Web. 2015.Family Caregiver Alliance. Policy and Advocacy. Web.Alzheimers Association. Alzheimers and Dementia Caregiver Center: Respite Care. Web. 2017 Stanford Center on Longevity. Age and Emotional Well-Being: The Varied Emotional Experience of Family Caregivers by Sarah Raposo, Jessica Barnes, Tamara Sims, Amy Yotopoulos, Lara Carstensen, Mary Bowman, Jacquelyn Kung. Web. 2017. Read more about the study here. https://www.comfortkeepers.com/family-caregiver-study
Veteran-owned HomeWell puts veterans first, offering exceptional in-home care that honors their service and values.As veterans, we understand the importance of protecting the well-being of others. Our service-driven approach is rooted in the values of perseverance, respect, dignity and honor as we aid families in need, support fellow veterans and help our community thrive through exceptional in-home care services. Committed to providing you with the peaceful retirement youve earned.The retirement years of those who have served should be marked by dignity, comfort and belonging. However, for veterans whose years of service are etched with valor and sacrifice, life as a citizen can prove challenging. Depending on their experiences, the transition to normalcy and everyday life can be a long-term endeavorone that continues well into their senior years.At HomeWell, weve found that the comfort of home can make all the difference for our esteemed soldiers who seek to age gracefully. For these individuals, maintaining autonomy is not just a preference; its a testament to the resilience that defines them. By bringing care directly to their doorstep, senior veterans can enjoy the familiarity of their own space while receiving the individualized care they need. Our role in veterans care:Our service-driven approach is rooted in the values of perseverance, respect, dignity and honor as we support veterans and their families, ultimately helping our community thrive through exceptional in-home care services. We thoughtfully consider the individual needs of each veteran entrusted to our care to develop a highly personalized plan that takes into account their physical, mental and emotional well-being at home.We also extend a helping hand to veterans and their families as they navigate their finances. We understand that paying out of pocket often hinders them from pursuing non-medical home care. However, if your loved one is enrolled in health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or has a monthly VA pension, they may be eligible to receive coverage for assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) at HomeWell. If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans Care in Plano, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX today. Call (469) 596-6500HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.
IntroductionWelcome to A Call to Order Professional Organizer, where we specialize in helping seniors transition to new living spaces with grace and ease. In this guide, we'll explore the invaluable role of senior organizing professionals in facilitating smooth transitions for older adults. From downsizing and decluttering to coordinating moves and settling into new homes, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate support and practical assistance every step of the way.The Importance of Transitioning with GraceTransitioning to a new living environment can be a challenging and emotional process for seniors. Whether they're downsizing to a smaller home, moving into assisted living, or relocating to be closer to family, navigating the logistics and emotions of such a transition can feel overwhelming. Senior organizing professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that seniors are supported with dignity and respect throughout this journey. How Senior Organizing Professionals Can HelpPersonalized Planning and Support: At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand that every senior's transition is unique. That's why we offer personalized planning and support tailored to each client's individual needs and preferences. Our team works closely with seniors and their families to develop customized moving plans that address logistical concerns while also taking into account emotional considerations.Compassionate Downsizing and Decluttering: Downsizing and decluttering are often integral parts of the moving process for seniors. Our organizing professionals provide compassionate guidance and hands-on assistance to help seniors sort through their belongings, decide what to keep, donate, or discard, and create a streamlined living environment that reflects their priorities and lifestyle.Logistics Coordination: Coordinating a move can be a daunting task, especially for seniors who may be dealing with physical limitations or health concerns. Our team takes care of all the logistical details, from scheduling movers and coordinating packing and unpacking to arranging for utilities and change of address notifications. We handle the logistics so that seniors can focus on the emotional aspects of their transition.Settling into New Spaces: Adjusting to a new living environment can take time, but our organizing professionals are here to help seniors settle in with ease. We assist with furniture placement, organizing belongings, and creating functional and comfortable living spaces that meet our clients' needs and preferences. Our goal is to ensure that seniors feel at home from the moment they walk through the door of their new residence.Emotional Support and Empathy: Moving can stir up a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to sadness and anxiety. Our organizing professionals provide emotional support and empathy throughout the transition process, offering a listening ear, reassurance, and encouragement when needed. We understand the emotional challenges that seniors may face during this time and strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for our clients.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that every senior deserves to transition to their new living space with grace and dignity. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate support, practical assistance, and personalized care to help seniors navigate this important life transition with ease. Let us be your partner in transitioning with grace, ensuring that you or your loved one can move forward confidently into this new chapter of life. With our expertise and empathy, we'll help you make the transition a positive and empowering experience.
We help tens of thousands of older adults get reliable & safe rides, meds, meals, groceries & home services nationwide. Rides, Groceries, Meals & More: Built Better For Older Adults And People With Disabilities.Screened & monitored services from Uber, DoorDash, Instacart and more, with or without a smartphone, 24/7.Millions of requests fulfilled for hundreds of thousands of people living independently at home. Available in all 50 states and Canada. We make modern services like Uber for seniors accessible and consistent so that you can make the most of every day. Hundreds of thousands of people trust in GoGo to postpone moving into retirement communities or hiring 24/7 caregiving teams.How We Work: Order rides for seniors, groceries, prescription medications, meals, home chores and more with a simple phone call to 1 (855) 464-6872.Our GoGoGuardian technology dramatically improves the reliability and usability of partners like Uber, DoorDash, Instacart & others for people who want to live independently in their home for as long as possible.
We help tens of thousands of older adults get reliable & safe rides, meds, meals, groceries & home services nationwide. Rides, Groceries, Meals & More: Built Better For Older Adults And People With Disabilities.Screened & monitored services from Uber, DoorDash, Instacart and more, with or without a smartphone, 24/7.Millions of requests fulfilled for hundreds of thousands of people living independently at home. Available in all 50 states and Canada. We make modern services like Uber for seniors accessible and consistent so that you can make the most of every day. Hundreds of thousands of people trust in GoGo to postpone moving into retirement communities or hiring 24/7 caregiving teams.How We Work: Order rides for seniors, groceries, prescription medications, meals, home chores and more with a simple phone call to 1 (855) 464-6872.Our GoGoGuardian technology dramatically improves the reliability and usability of partners like Uber, DoorDash, Instacart & others for people who want to live independently in their home for as long as possible.