by Maureen Totterer

Created on: September 16, 2010

Good nursing homes can be found in every state of the union. None can compare or compete with the benefits of home health care for the elderly. Not only do seniors receive one on one, private-duty care, the families of the elderly are blessed with priceless peace of mind.

1.  Staying home - Home health care enables the elderly to remain in their homes. One of the important goals for home health care agencies besides providing excellent care is making sure mom or dad is able to remain home-bound for as long as possible while encouraging optimal independence. Remaining home is conducive to tranquility and longevity in the life of a senior.

2.  Decreased chance for infection in the home setting - Unfortunately, hospitals and nursing home infections are a big reality. Too many avenues and too many opportunities exist and are conducive for the introduction of infection. Too many personnel are coming and going, giving care, cleaning rooms and preparing meals, not to mention the close proximity of a roommate. One on one home health care greatly decreases the chance for infection in the home setting.

3.  Choice of meals - Institutional food can't compare with home-cooked meals. Stable weight for seniors could be better maintained at home for a variety of reasons. Not everyone prefers breakfast at 6:45 in the morning. Many elderly enjoy small frequent snacks throughout the day and night. Home health care can easily meet nutritional needs and habits.

4.  Better sleep patterns - Sleeping in ones own bed in familiar surroundings promotes good sleep. Less noise, less staff and an absence of roommates are all conducive to a good night's sleep for the elderly.

5.  Less chance for abuse - Home health care agencies are quick to replace unwanted care-givers. Family members tend to visit loved ones more frequently in the home setting keeping a close eye on staff. It's harder to pin down abuse in nursing homes because many workers come and go in a 24 hour period.

Nothing is more frightening for an elderly person than to be told, "It's time for a nursing home." Many seniors believe a nursing home means loss of independence, loss of dignity and loss of personal safety due to unfamiliar surroundings. Many seniors will fall into depression, anxiety and failure to thrive upon placement in a nursing home. Home health care can delay or replace institutional care.

Government health care rationing is an upcoming reality with increased government intrusion into the private sector causing higher costs, mandates and never ending regulations. Keeping the elderly at home for as long as possible is the wise choice. Home health care can provide excellent care with peace of mind for all concerned.

http://www.VisitingAngels.com

http://www.homecareassistance.com

http://www.angelsonduty.com

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