---

Author: Ketan Shah

Staying in a familiar environment as they continue to age is a big goal for so many seniors. They typically also want to hold onto their independence for as long as possible, even as they experience health changes. These goals are much easier to achieve with a little bit of help. That’s where home care assistance can come in and fill in gaps, making sure seniors are safe and as healthy as possible.

Defining Home Care Assistance

Elder care services offer care as seniors need it. That care might include preparing meals, helping with personal care tasks like bathing, and transportation assistance. Light housekeeping, mobility help, and companionship are also part of the duties of home care assistance. The care offered is not medical in nature, however, so if seniors need that type of help, skilled nursing care or home health care may be better options.

Supporting Independence

Sometimes seniors aren’t excited about home care services because it feels like a way to become less independent. The reality is, though, that when seniors do have some assistance with daily tasks, they are able to conserve energy and experience less frustration. The help they receive also increases safety and enables seniors to retain self-confidence.

Enhancing Overall Well-being

Home care assistance also helps seniors to maintain their overall well-being. Regular support helps them to stay physically and emotionally healthy. They’re better able to avoid falls and other accidents, eat healthy meals, and stay engaged in meaningful activities. They may also feel safer doing things like engaging in regular movement, which helps them to maintain muscle tone and a healthy weight. Seniors also have companionship, allowing them to avoid loneliness and isolation.

Receiving Customized Support

Elder care is even more helpful for seniors because it can adjust to meet their needs. Care plans evolve as seniors find their needs changing. Some seniors may only need a little bit of help occasionally. For instance, when they experience mobility issues because of arthritis flares, seniors may need additional help with bathing, changing clothes, and other tasks that are too difficult to manage alone. When they have lighter needs, home care assistance may offer mainly companionship or help with household tasks.

Reassuring Family Members

Family caregivers want the best for their aging family members. They do so much to offer as much help as possible, but they also have other responsibilities that demand time and energy. Home care assistance can be there when family caregivers can’t be, which allows them to feel more confident that their aging family members are in good hands. Family caregivers are then able to relax, focusing on being there for their seniors in the ways that they can be there.

Seniors often need a blend of practical support and other types of help. Home care assistance offers seniors independence while also supporting their dignity and overall well-being. When seniors have the hands-on support they need, they’re better able to stay engaged and active, keeping them as independent as possible while they age in place.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in Palo Alto, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 317-4969.