Do you have an elderly loved one whose health is declining? If so, you and your family might be facing some tough decisions about their care. Many families are against the idea of their loved ones spending their last days in a facility. This often means that they must join forces to take care of their loved ones. In some cases, one family member may take on the task of becoming the primary caretaker. This can mean abandoning their jobs or putting goals and plans on hold. If this sounds similar to your situation, you might want to consider at-home elderly care. The following points identify services that can be delivered to your loved one in a private environment such as your home or theirs.

Companionship

Loneliness can lead to depression. This is why it is important to ensure that seniors have companionship and an opportunity to experience life beyond the home. Many of them have friends who preceded them in death. Hiring a home aide would give your loved one someone to spend time with at home. Depending on their physical abilities and preferences, they might also get a chance to get out of the house for recreational activities.

Overnight Care and Day Care

Every family's needs are different. Some families may need care during school and work hours. At-home care can be provided when specified overnight or during the day. There are families who require a more comprehensive solution. The option for 24/7 care is also available, as well as weekend or weekday care. The agency can arrange for meals to be prepared for your loved one. If you provide the meals, they will ensure that they are served according to your requests. 

Personal Care

As individuals age, their memory may decline. This can result in forgetting to take medications or not taking them on time. If there are doctor's orders that involve things such as checking blood pressure and blood sugar, you will have peace of mind knowing that it will be done. Bathing might be more difficult, too. Seniors could get severe injuries if they fall in a bathtub. It is also possible for them to scald themselves with hot water if they are incoherent. At-home care ensures that their hygiene and medical needs are safely met.

Some families do not need round-the-clock care for their loved ones. Agencies consult with families and can create customized care plans to ensure that all needs are met and set a schedule. If needs change, the agency chosen can be a resource to develop a new care plan.

For more information, contact a local care provider, like MARSCare.