Getting older is an absolute truth of life that some say is the only constant besides taxes. Jokes aside, as we grow in age, our bodies don’t always work exactly how we are accustomed and sometimes this means we have to pay extra attention to how our bodies are functioning. In my personal experiences recently I have noticed there is a general fear of doctors, hospitals and especially the concept of home health and assisted living for the older generation, in my family at least.
Despite why that may be, I realized that there are a lot of misconceptions about home health and the use of home care to maintain proper functioning of the body or complete therapy after a sickness or injury. In response to that realization, I thought it would be advantageous to identify some of the top reasons that home health is a good route for therapy and geriatric medicine. First and foremost, home health care affords patients the option to recover from sickness or injury in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by the love and support of friends and family. Home health gives a higher level of freedom and independence to the patient by completing their care around familiar territory and helping to teach them to operate independently in their own home. This treatment approach allows for less stress on the patient and the family in the recovery process as well as the development of healthy habits and therapy tactics.
Another aspect of home health care that makes it a good option is that the nature of this care can be so much more than treatment and therapy. House calls can include help with personal to-dos such as showering, shaving and getting dressed. Tasks such as cooking and cleaning help the patient feel more independent and, therefore, develop an elevated level of self-confidence, fostering an environment of healing.
Speaking of such an environment, home health care has statistically decreased re-hospitalizations for patients, resulting in long-term wellness. Also, while home health is significantly more cost-efficient than in-office care or assisted living, it also allows the patient to receive a personalized approach to care, giving them the absolute highest level of medical attention at the best value. With that said, if you or a loved one are considering home health, I want to encourage you to get more information about the options available.