When you’re a family caregiver, helping a loved one in Palm Beach transition from hospital to home can be a physically and emotionally demanding experience. Ensuring a smooth transition that minimizes the likelihood of readmission requires careful post-hospital discharge planning and follow-up. The remainder of this article will explore challenges that caregivers face once loved ones leave the hospital, as well as tips for providing them with the transitional care and support they so desperately need.

Top Reasons for Hospital Readmissions

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare today is reducing hospital readmissions. Whether it’s following an emergency admission or a planned hospital stay, getting readmitted shortly after being discharged can be disheartening for patients and their families. Common – and often avoidable – post-hospital discharge issues that cause readmissions include:

Inadequate Post-Discharge Care

One of the primary reasons for readmissions is inadequate post-discharge care. Patients may not fully understand their post-hospitalization instructions, resulting in medication errors, missed appointments, or failure to follow proper self-care routines. Insufficient support at home can also contribute to readmissions, as patients may struggle to manage their conditions without assistance.

Medication Mismanagement

Medication errors are a significant factor leading to hospital readmissions. Some patients may forget to take their medications or take incorrect dosages. Others might not understand the importance of medication adherence or experience adverse side effects that cause them to discontinue their prescribed medications.

Inadequate Follow-up Care

Lack of timely and appropriate follow-up care can also contribute to readmissions. Patients may not schedule or attend necessary follow-up appointments with primary care physicians or specialists. These issues can result in missed opportunities to monitor their condition or detect potential complications.

Infection or Complications

Sometimes, patients may develop infections or experience complications after discharge. Infections can occur at surgical sites or result from weakened immune systems. Complications related to the initial condition or procedure can also arise, necessitating readmission for further treatment.

Social-related Health Factors

Social determinants, such as housing instability, limited access to transportation, or inadequate social support, can impact a patient’s ability to manage their health post-discharge. These factors can contribute to readmissions when patients are unable to access necessary care or support services.

Hospital Discharge Planning Tips for Caregivers in Palm Beach

Thankfully, many hospital readmissions can easily be avoided by addressing the underlying causes. Here are some ways to ensure your loved one receives the post-hospital care they deserve:

Prepare the Home

Before your loved one comes home, create a safe and comfortable environment by doing the following:

• Safety Evaluation: Conduct a thorough safety assessment of the home, removing any potential hazards such as loose rugs, clutter, or wobbly handrails. Install grab bars in the bathroom and ensure adequate lighting throughout the house.
• Accessibility: Complete necessary modifications to accommodate your loved one’s mobility needs. This process may include installing ramps, widening doorways, or rearranging furniture to create clear pathways.
• Medication Management: Devise a system for organizing and administering medications. Use pill organizers, create a medication schedule, and establish a reliable method for tracking refills and prescription changes.

Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals

Collaboration between healthcare professionals, patients, and their families is vital for ensuring a successful recovery journey. Include these steps in your transitional care strategy:

• Discharge Planning: Attend discharge planning meetings with the healthcare team to understand the care and support your loved one will require after leaving the hospital. Ask questions, seek clarification, and ensure you are well-informed about the upcoming care plan.
• Home Healthcare: Discuss with the healthcare team the possibility of arranging home healthcare services, such as nursing visits or physical therapy, if necessary. These professionals can provide ongoing support and guidance during the recovery process.
• Medical Equipment and Supplies: Consult with the healthcare team to determine what medical equipment or supplies your loved one may need at home. Arrange for the delivery and installation of any necessary equipment, such as a hospital bed, wheelchair, or oxygen.

Manage Ongoing Responsibilities

Ensuring your loved one’s continuity of care is possible by implementing these tips:

• Create a Caregiver Schedule: Establish a schedule that ensures round-the-clock care, especially during the initial days following discharge. Coordinate duties with other family members or consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver if additional support is needed.
• Manage Follow-up Appointments: Work together to schedule and coordinate follow-up appointments with healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and therapists. Keep a calendar to ensure you don’t forget important dates.
• Communicate Effectively: Maintain open lines of communication with the healthcare team and regularly update them on any changes or improvements. Don’t hesitate to share concerns or observations regarding your loved one’s condition, medications, or recovery progress.

Practice Self-Care

Staying recharged as a caregiver helps ensure you can meet your loved one’s needs. Here are some reliable ways to prevent caregiver burnout:

• Emotional Support: The caregiver’s role can be emotionally demanding. Maintain a support system comprised of friends, family, or caregiver support groups. Set aside time to relax, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
• Respite Care: Consider arranging respite care to allow yourself some time away from caregiving responsibilities. Temporary care resources may include professional respite services, community volunteers, or trusted family and friends.
• Professional Counseling: If you find yourself overwhelmed or struggling emotionally, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable support during this challenging time.

Final Thoughts About Post-Hospital Discharge Planning

In conclusion, post-hospital discharge planning plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition for loved ones from hospital to home. By following the caregiver’s roadmap outlined in this article, you can create a safe and supportive environment, work effectively with healthcare professionals, coordinate responsibilities, and prioritize your well-being.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Seek outside support, rely on available resources, and practice self-care – as caring for your loved one also means taking care of yourself!

Dignified In-Home Transitional Care for Families in Palm Beach

Although it is highly gratifying, helping a loved one after a hospital discharge can be physically and emotionally demanding. When you need assistance, contact Health at Home in Palm Beach. As a fully licensed and insured home care provider, our highly trained professionals are experts at delivering the quality transitional care your loved one deserves. While serving as an extended family in the home, our caregivers can perform various duties, including Personal Care, Memory Care, Companion Care, Light Housekeeping, Medication Supervision, and even Live-In Care and 24-hour Care.Personal Care, Respite Care, private duty care, 24-hour care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and more.

While assisting clients in Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Broward, Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie, our agency’s focus is maintaining your loved one’s quality of life, along with their dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our in-home services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit Health at Home online now to learn more about us or schedule a FREE initial consultation for a loved one in our service area.

There are roughly 53 million family caregivers in the US, most of which care for aging-in-place friends and relatives. If your senior loved one lives in Palm Beach, you may be one of them. And although being a caregiver is highly gratifying, it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.

As a result, many caregivers experience stress, fatigue, and burnout that can prevent them from delivering quality care that helps maintain their loved ones’ independence. If you are a family caregiver, what follows are ways to practice self-care so you can continue to provide your seniors with the nurturing they deserve.

Senior Care Tips for Family Caregivers in Palm Beach

For starters, using these tips will help make your caregiving journey more manageable:

Take Care of Yourself

As a family caregiver, it’s easy to neglect your own needs while focusing on those of aging or disabled loved ones. However, self-care is essential to providing a high level of care. Be sure to take breaks when feeling run down, eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.

Get Organized

Caregiving can involve a lot of paperwork, appointments, social activities, and medication schedules. Keeping everything organized and prioritizing tasks can help reduce stress and make things more manageable. Use a calendar to keep track of appointments and a medication organizer to manage your loved one’s meds.

Communicate Effectively

Communication is key when it comes to caregiving, so be sure to communicate openly, honestly, and continually with your senior, other family members, and healthcare professionals. Be clear and concise when discussing your loved one’s care plan so everyone will be on the same page.

Stay Positive

No matter how hard you try, your loved one’s condition will eventually worsen. It’s important as their caregiver to stay positive while focusing on the good things in life. Celebrate small victories along the way, like getting Mom to eat everything on her dinner plate. In the end, a positive attitude can go a long way in helping you and your loved one navigate days when nothing else seems to be going right.

Take Breaks

Because caregiving can be a 24/7 job, you must take occasional breaks to avoid burnout. Whether it’s taking a walk, reading a book, enjoying a spa day, or binge-watching your favorite TV shows, taking breaks can help you recharge and be a better caregiver.

Practice Patience

Although caring for an elderly loved one can sometimes be frustrating, you must learn to be patient. Remember that your senior is going through a difficult time and may need extra support and understanding.

What Resources Are There for Family Caregivers in Palm Beach?

There are also many caregiving resources you can take advantage of, including the following:

Innovative Technology

Technology can be a great resource for family caregivers. Numerous apps and tools are now available that can help you keep track of medications, appointments, and caregiving tasks. Another idea is using video conferencing to stay connected with your senior, healthcare professionals, and other care team members.

Respite Care

Respite care is another essential caregiving resource for family caregivers. Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take a break and recharge. Sources of respite care include professional home care, adult daycare centers, and respite care facilities. Many insurance plans and programs, including Medicaid, offer respite care benefits.

Education and Training

As yet another valuable resource for family caregivers, many organizations offer classes and workshops on caregiving topics such as managing medications, bathing and dressing, and communicating with healthcare professionals. These classes can help caregivers feel more confident in their caregiving role by teaching valuable skills and knowledge.

Financial Assistance

The average family caregiver incurs hefty out-of-pocket costs while caring for loved ones. Thankfully, financial resources are also available for family caregivers. Many organizations offer financial assistance programs for caregivers, including scholarships, grants, and low-interest loans. Caregivers can also protect their retirement nest eggs by seeking financial advice from trained professionals like financial planners and accountants.

How Can I Build a Caregiving Support Network?

It is also essential as a family caregiver to have a support network in place so you can navigate the daily challenges that come with caring for a senior at home. Here’s how to build a caregiving support network so you can stay refreshed and honor your loved one’s wishes:

Identify Your Needs

First, make a list of tasks you need help with, such as transportation, meal preparation, or running errands. Once you have identified your needs, think about who can help you, like friends, relatives, and community volunteers.

Contact Those on Your List

Family and friends are often the first people we turn to for help. Based on their time and talents, reach out to loved ones on your list and tell them what you need. Be specific about the tasks you need help with and how much time each will take. While doing so, communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

Utilize Community Resources

Many communities offer resources for family caregivers, including respite care, meal delivery, and transportation services. You can learn about senior care resources in your community by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging.

Join a Support Group

Support groups can be an excellent resource for family caregivers, as they provide a safe space to share your experiences and connect with others who understand what you are going through. You can locate support groups online or in your community.

Hire a Professional Caregiver

If you need help with tasks that require advanced training, like dementia or Alzheimer’s care, consider hiring a professional caregiver from a reputable home care provider. A professional in-home caregiver can provide you with the expertise and support you need while ensuring your loved one receives the quality care they deserve.

Dignified In-Home Senior Care for Families in Palm Beach

When searching for a reliable home care company, look no further than Health at Home in Palm Beach. We are a fully licensed and insured provider with highly trained professionals who are experts at delivering the nurturing your loved one deserves. While serving as an extended family in your senior’s home, our compassionate caregivers can perform various duties, including Personal Care, Respite Care, private duty care, 24-hour care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and more.

While assisting clients in Boynton Beach, Broward, Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie, our agency’s focus is maintaining your loved one’s quality of life, along with their dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our in-home services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit Health at Home online now to learn more about us or schedule a FREE initial consultation for a senior in our service area.

If your aging loved ones in Palm Beach are like most, they want to remain in their current homes for as long as possible. And although that’s an admirable goal, over two-thirds of aging-in-place seniors eventually require elderly care to remain independent.

When that time comes, families face hard decisions regarding where that care will take place. If you’re still “on the fence” as a family caregiver, read on to learn why professional senior home care is the right choice when your loved ones’ health and well-being weigh in the balance.

How Aging at Home Benefits Seniors in Palm Beach

Seniors who receive home care often reap these advantages as a result:

Familiarity and Comfort

One of the primary advantages of aging at home is the familiarity and comfort that come with living in a familiar environment. Because most seniors spend years or even decades in their homes, the familiar surroundings often provide a sense of security and comfort that’s hard to duplicate in a new and unfamiliar setting.

Independence

Aging at home can help seniors maintain a greater degree of independence they might not otherwise have in an assisted living facility or nursing home. While receiving home care, elderly adults can continue to manage their daily routines and make their own decisions about how they want to spend their time, minus the constraints that come with living in a communal environment.

Personalized Care

Home care also empowers seniors by providing them with personalized care and one-on-one attention. Seniors and their families can work closely with caregivers to develop a care plan specific to their needs, rather than having to conform to the routines and schedules of an elder care facility.

Cost Savings

Paying for any type of long-term elder care takes creativity. Although it may require costs associated with home modifications in addition to professional caregiving services, the overall costs of home care may be lower than those of an assisted living facility.

Support Network

When seniors age at home, they can continue to rely on the support of family, friends, and neighbors. While serving on your loved one’s caregiving team, these familiar faces can offer emotional support, companionship, and daily living assistance.

Quality of Life

Research indicates that seniors who age in place often report a higher quality of life than those who move into assisted living facilities and nursing homes. This phenomenon is likely due to the sense of independence, familiarity, and comfort that can only come while living in one’s own home.

Adaptable Environment

Unlike other senior living options, you can complete home modifications that make your loved ones’ environment safer and more accessible by updating the bathroom or installing grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts. Seniors can also personalize their living space to their liking, which may improve their emotional well-being and mental health.

Lower Risk of Infection

Communal elder care environments can be breeding grounds for illnesses and infections. Seniors who age at home can reduce their exposure to germs, something that’s notably important during flu season or a pandemic like COVID.

Diet and Nutrition

For one reason or another, many seniors don’t eat as they should. Aging in place will also allow your loved ones to maintain better control over their diet and nutrition. They can continue to prepare their own meals or work with a professional caregiver to create a healthy meal plan that meets their dietary needs and preferences.

Socialization

Socialization is essential for people of all ages, including seniors. While aging at home, your loved ones can maintain an active social life by participating in local events and activities, visiting friends and family, or connecting with others in their community.

How to Choose the Best Home Care Agency in Palm Beach, FL

Once you’ve decided to start professional in-home care, here’s how to hire the best provider for your aging loved ones:

Reputation

Do your research by seeking referrals from friends, family, and healthcare providers. Look for providers that are licensed and accredited, and check their Google reviews, client testimonials, and ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Services

Some home care providers only offer basic personal care, meal preparation, and light housekeeping services, while others provide more specialized care, such as physical therapy or Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A reliable way to narrow your search is to consider the services your loved ones need and find an agency that provides them.

Caregiver Qualifications

Determine if the agency hires caregivers who are qualified and experienced. Ask them about their hiring and training practices and what kind of background checks they perform. And finally, ensure the agency has a system for matching caregivers with clients based on their needs and personalities.

Flexibility

Look for a flexible provider that can accommodate your loved ones’ changing needs. For instance, if your loved one needs more care during an illness or after a hospital stay, a reputable agency should be able to adjust their services accordingly.

Communication

Choose an agency that values communication and keeps you informed about your loved ones’ care. Ask how they communicate with clients and caregivers, and how often they provide updates. Be sure the provider also has a system for addressing concerns or complaints.

24/7 Availability

Find out if the agency offers around-the-clock care, and whether they have caregivers and supervisors available on weekends and holidays. While you’re at it, ask them what their policy is for handling emergencies and last-minute requests.

Cost

It’s also key to find an agency that offers affordable rates. Ask for a detailed breakdown of their fees and charges, and also be sure you understand their billing policies. In addition to private pay, do they accept payment methods like Medicaid, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance?

Quality of Care

Arguably the most crucial factor when choosing a senior home care agency, quality of care matters. Choose a provider committed to providing compassionate, personalized care that seamlessly aligns with your loved ones’ needs.

Family Trusted In-Home Care for Seniors in Palm Beach

When you need home care, look no further than Health at Home in Palm Beach. We are a fully licensed and insured provider with highly trained professionals who are experts at delivering the nurturing your loved one deserves. While serving as an extended family in your senior’s home, our compassionate caregivers can perform various duties, including personal care, respite care, private duty care, 24-hour care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and more.

While assisting clients in Boynton Beach, Broward, Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie, our agency’s focus is maintaining your loved one’s quality of life, along with their dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our in-home services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit healthathome.care online now to learn more about us or schedule a FREE initial consultation for a senior in our service area.

Given the choice, most independent seniors in Palm Beach would prefer to remain at home for as long as possible. And although that’s an admirable goal, roughly two-thirds of all aging adults eventually need caregiving assistance to maintain their independence. When that time comes, families must make difficult decisions about their loved one’s care, including whether to hire a professional caregiver directly or go through an agency. What follows are some things you’ll need to know before making your decision.

Key Considerations When Hiring Independent Caregivers

Families often believe they will save money by hiring a caregiver directly versus working with an agency. While they may be quite capable of caring for your loved one, be sure to consider these factors first:

IRS rules for household employers

For federal tax purposes, someone is classified as your household employee if you dictate what work they perform in the home environment, and how that work is done. An independent caregiver is technically your household employee if they receive instructions on how to care for your loved one from you or another family member and you provide the equipment and supplies they need.

Conversely, self-employed individuals like independent contractors decide how they perform their work and furnish their own supplies and equipment. That said, most private-duty caregivers are not independent contractors. Be sure you understand the difference.

Employment eligibility verification requirements

Once you’ve determined that your private caregiver will be classified as a household employee, the next step is to verify they can legally work in the United States. That will require the two of you to fill out IRS Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) and produce documentation that proves their eligibility to work in the US.

Although the completed I-9 Form does not have to be formally filed with any US government agency, you, as their employer, must keep a copy for your records. You’ll also need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and document your household employee’s Social Security number.

Tax obligations of a household employer

The federal and state tax amount that you must contribute for an independent caregiver who is a household employee will vary depending on which state you live in and how much you pay for their services.

For example, in California, a household employer is defined by the state’s Employment Development Department (EDD) as anyone “who has paid $750 or more in cash wages (checks and cash) to one or more household workers in a calendar quarter.” If you are paying a private caregiver $15 to $20 an hour, hitting that threshold won’t take long.

Once that threshold is met, by law you must withhold State Disability Insurance (SDI) from the wages paid out and remit the withheld money to the EDD. If you pay more than $1,000 in wages during a calendar quarter, you must also remit Unemployment Insurance and Employment Training Tax payments to the EDD.

With all these requirements, it’s vital to maintain detailed records related to your employee’s wages and taxes. Employment tax records must also be kept for at least four years after whichever is later, the due date of the tax return or the date when the taxes were paid.

Each time you pay the caregiver, be sure to record the date of the payment and itemize the following:

• Employee’s cash and non-cash wages
• Federal income tax withheld
• State employment tax withheld
• Social Security tax withheld or paid for your employee
• Medicare tax withheld or paid for your employee

Advantages of Using a Home Care Agency in Palm Beach, Fl

Most home care agencies hire caregivers as employees, while others arrange for the services of home care workers on an independent contractor basis – also known as 1099. Known as “registries,” their caregivers are not employees but rather employed directly by the clients. If you hire a registry that contracts out their work, you’ll be dealing with most of the same issues mentioned above.

These are the benefits of hiring an employee caregiver through a reputable home care agency:

Peace of Mind

A home care agency that employs caregivers is not only bonded and insured, but they also cover their employees under worker’s compensation. Independent (direct hire) caregivers not employed by an agency do not carry liability insurance or worker’s compensation. If an accident or other incident occurs on the job, you would likely be responsible, which could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

An agency will also screen its employees during the recruiting and hiring process, including a thorough criminal background check and drug test. That saves you the time and expense of doing so.

Supervision

This key aspect is not included in the average registry provider’s business model. If the caregiver is not performing up to your expectations, for instance, they repeatedly arrive late or miss shifts, you are on your own and will need to speak to the caregiver directly.

Home care agencies implement disciplinary policies that help their employees improve. Once you voice your concerns to a supervisor, they will speak to the caregiver or, if you prefer, send you a different caregiver. As opposed to a registry or direct hire, agencies also have backup plans in the event your regular caregiver is unavailable.

Training

Because there is no risk of a labor relationship, training is yet another dimension that only reputable home care agencies can deliver. If hiring a caregiver directly, the client must assess the quality and skill of the caregiver. This becomes even more essential if they require hands-on personal care or have limited mobility, dementia, or Alzheimer’s.

A trusted home care agency routinely trains and tests its caregivers, giving you one less thing to worry about!

Overall Value

Although hiring an independent contractor will cost less per hour, saving money should not be primary determinant when your or your loved one’s care weighs in the balance. Agency advantages such as experience, training, supervision, and peace of mind usually result in better caregiving outcomes and more satisfied clients that you cannot put a price tag on.

Final Thoughts

Most seniors aren’t interested in becoming an employer, filing payroll taxes, or obtaining worker’s compensation and liability insurance. When having “the talk” about home care with your senior, please remember they are trying to make their life easier, not harder.

Your Family-Trusted Home Care Source in Palm Beach County

When you need caregiving assistance, contact Health at Home in Palm Beach, Fl. While proudly serving families in Broward, Martin, St. Lucie & Indian River Counties, we are a licensed, bonded, and insured home care provider with highly trained professionals who are experts at delivering the nurturing our clients’ need. As an extended family in your senior’s home, our compassionate caregivers can perform duties like light housekeeping, personal care, dementia care, companionship care, medication reminders, and even live-in and 24-hour care.

Our agency’s focus is maintaining your loved one’s quality of life, as well as their dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our in-home services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit us at healthathome.care now to learn more about us or to schedule a FREE initial consultation for a senior in our service area.

Although it’s highly gratifying, caring for an aging or disabled loved one in Palm Beach brings a unique set of challenges as the weeks transition into months and even years. While battling physical, emotional, and mental fatigue, the average family caregiver must manage a household and job along with their caregiving responsibilities. 

For some informal caregivers, there never seems to be enough hours in the day or energy “in the tank.” Whether new to the caregiving game or a seasoned veteran, read on to learn why respite care should be an essential part of your self-care program.   

Caregiver Fatigue Warning Signs

No matter how healthy and fit they are, most family caregivers eventually feel overworked, overstressed, and overtired. There are days when it seems like no matter how hard you try, your loved one’s condition keeps getting worse. When that happens, the tendency is to try harder while investing more and more time into their care. If you’re not careful, those emotional ups and downs can lead to caregiver fatigue or even full-blown burnout.

Caregiver fatigue typically presents with these warning signs:

• Feeling mentally and physically drained all the time
• Sleeping not enough or too much
• Anxiety and depression
• Constantly feeling worried or overwhelmed
• Disinterest in activities once enjoyed
• Lack of exercise
• Rapid weight loss or gain
• Substance abuse, including prescription meds

How Respite Care Can Help

Caring for an elderly, sick, or disabled family member can be a full-time job. Every so often, you’ll need to take some time off to tend to your own needs. Respite care is a commonly used term that describes a temporary break for caregivers. Those caregiving breaks can be as long or short as you need them to be, whether for a few hours, days, weeks, or longer.

Sources of Respite Care in Palm Beach

Once fatigue sets in, the health and well-being of all caregivers – and the care recipient – could be at risk. Long-time relationships can also suffer as patience grows thin and personality differences intensify.

Thankfully, staying recharged and refreshed as a caregiver is possible by utilizing these respite care resources:

Adult day care

For a fee, adult daycare centers cater to seniors by providing light assistance with normal, day-to-day activities like nutritious meals, elder-friendly transportation, and socialization. The level of care provided varies by center, as some adult daycare facilities even offer comprehensive medical and therapeutic services.

Community programs

Many communities offer free programs and services that allow overworked family caregivers to take a break. A list of those can be found through the ARCH National Respite Network Locator. You can also access community respite care resources via the Family Care Navigator or your local chapter of the Agency on Aging.

Transportation alternatives

Losing their driving privileges can deal a significant blow to your aging loved one’s freedom and independence – giving you one more thing to worry about. Thankfully, many larger communities offer public transportation and paratransit services for elderly riders at discounted rates. Setting up your senior with a ride-sharing service is another reliable way to cross one more thing off your caregiving “to-do” list.

Professional in-home respite care

Like other types of elder care, in-home respite care relies on the assistance of paid healthcare professionals who provide a wide range of personal care services to support aging or ill adults and their families. Respite care needs vary, from a few hours a day or week to 24-hour and live-in care.

Professional in-home respite caregivers are trained to provide these services:

• Light personal care, such as bathing and grooming
• Socialization, including conversation and companionship
• Food shopping, meal preparation, and cleanup
• Running errands
• Light housework
• Transportation
• Medication supervision

Choosing the Right Home Care Provider in Palm Beach

Once you’ve decided to hire a respite caregiver, here’s how to narrow down your home care agency search:

Ask for referrals.

Sometimes, knowing where to find home care companies is half the battle. Ask your friends, coworkers, neighbors, and relatives for referrals if you have never used an agency before. If you live in another part of the country, a quick Google search can pull up the names and contact information for home care companies in your community.

Research their services.

Initially, your loved one may only need a little help performing activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing, or meal preparation. But if they were recently diagnosed with a serious illness or dementia, it may take specialized care to maintain an independent lifestyle and higher quality of life.

Look for a provider that offers a full menu of in-home services, including dementia and Alzheimer’s care, transportation, and 24-hour care. It’s also a good idea to ask if the agency requires ongoing staff training and if their caregivers are certified per state requirements.

Read their online reviews.

In addition to referrals from trusted sources, you’ll also need to research what others say about each provider. Online reviews from clients and their families reveal much about an agency’s reputation, as do testimonials from current and former employees.

Reputable home care companies also conduct drug tests and extensive background checks on their employees, including criminal and driving records. While you’re at it, check to see if the agency meets all federal and state certification requirements. Have they received any industry awards in recognition of their achievements?

Find out how much they charge.

Contrary to what you might believe, Medicare does not cover elective home care services like personal care or homemaker services. While your choice of an in-home care provider should not exclusively hinge on price, it will ultimately play a role. First, determine how much your loved one can afford based on their monthly budget.

In most cases, the cost of care relies on the number of hours the caregiver spends with their client, along with the type of services they provide. Before making your choice, research each company’s hourly rates, as well as how much they charge for daily and overnight visits.

Interview the caregivers yourself.

Once you’ve narrowed your provider search to two or three candidates, it’ll be time to progress to the interview phase. Schedule a screening interview for your loved one with each potential caregiver to ensure that their personality and work ethic align with yours.

During the interview, be sure to ask the supervisor for references from previous clients, along with proof of insurance and other certifications. This is also the perfect time to discuss your loved one’s care plan and how the agency would adapt to their changing needs.

Be sure to ask these additional questions:

• What’s your backup plan in the event of an emergency or illness?
• Will the primary caregiver be providing most of the care?
• How do you measure the competency and performance of your caregivers?
• How do you determine if a caregiver is a good fit for a client?
• Are your caregivers screened? How?
• Is a registered nurse (RN) or equivalent case manager available 24/7?

Personalized In-Home Respite Care for Families in Palm Beach

When you need time off from your caregiving duties, contact Health at home in Palm Beach, and we’ll handle the rest. We are a fully licensed and insured home care provider with highly trained professionals who are experts at delivering the nurturing that your loved one deserves. While serving families in Boynton Beach, Broward, Indian River. Martin, St. Lucie, our compassionate caregivers can perform duties like Respite Care, Personal Care, Dementia Care, Companionship, Medication Supervision, and even Live-In and 24-Hour Care.

Our agency’s focus is maintaining your loved one’s quality of life, along with their dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our in-home services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit Health at Home online now to learn more about us or schedule a FREE initial consultation for a senior in our service area.

Numerous studies have shown that regular exercise benefits people of all ages, including those 65-and-over. Sadly, millions of aging in place elderly Americans don’t exercise like they should, which eventually harms their health and wellbeing. On the other hand, seniors who follow a good exercise routine typically enjoy longer, healthier, and happier lives. If you are presently looking after an aging-in-place senior loved one, here are some specific reasons why encouraging them to have a good exercise routine is so important. 

How Regular Exercise Benefits Seniors

The aging process can be hard on our bodies, whether it’s a lack of energy, poor balance, and coordination, or the onset of arthritis. And although there’s no proven way to completely stop the effects of aging from occurring, exercising regularly can certainly make them much more tolerable. With that said, here are several ways that a good exercise routine benefits seniors:

Helps Prevent Falls

One-in-three at-home seniors experience a serious fall every year, and oftentimes poor balance and coordination are contributing factors. Most low-impact forms of exercise improve an older person’s balance and coordination, thereby reducing their likelihood to fall.

Sharpens Mental Acuity

One of the biggest fears for seniors is being diagnosed with dementia, and studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle is an important risk factor for developing cognitive impairment. On the other hand, researchers have found that regular exercise helps sharpen a senior’s mental acuity and concentration, both of which help protect them against dementia.

Increases Bone Strength

Elderly people commonly get osteoporosis and broken bones. However, weight-bearing exercises like walking or Yoga help increase bone strength which reduces the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and experiencing a bone fracture.

Lowers Cardiovascular Disease Risk

Exercise raises a participant’s heart rate, which helps protect them from cardiovascular disease. Studies have also found that following a good exercise routine also helps normalize a senior’s blood pressure and blood sugar, which also lowers their risk of having a stroke.

Reduces Stress

Many seniors feel stressed out, and exercise stimulates the release of “feel good” hormones known as endorphins that act as natural stress relievers. In addition to feeling happier and more satisfied, endorphins also help a senior get a better night’s sleep.

Improves Flexibility

As our bodies age, joint flexibility diminishes. That can make even the most simple activities, like driving a car or getting dressed, very unpleasant at times. Stretching and working out regularly improves flexibility and helps promote a more active lifestyle.

Boosts Immunity

The older a person gets, the harder it is for their body to fight off illnesses like the flu or a UTI. But participating in regular exercise has been shown to boost a senior’s immune system, which helps protect their bodies against pesky microbes.

Promotes Social Interaction

Joining a local senior-focused fitness center is a great way to make new friends and ward off feelings of loneliness and depression that can result from social isolation.

Longevity

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), leading a sedentary lifestyle is one of the main causes of death and disability. On the other hand, the WHO points out that exercising regularly can increase a person’s lifespan by up to 5 years.

Healthy Exercises for Older Adults

High-impact forms of exercise like powerlifting or running are generally not recommended for older adults. But there are several fun, lower-impact ways for them to get regular exercise, such as:

• Walking
• Water or chair aerobics
• Yoga or Tai Chi
• Certain forms of dancing
• Bouncing on an exercise ball or mini trampoline
• Working out with resistance bands, or hand and ankle weights

Our In-Home Caregivers Love Helping Seniors Exercise

Ensuring that an aging-in-place senior loved one gets enough exercise can be hard when you’re busy or live far away. When you need a hand, call Health at Home. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency, our highly trained caregivers love helping seniors exercise so they can continue aging comfortably in place right where they want to be. While serving as an extended family in your loved one’s home, our carefully screened aides can also perform duties including light housework, personal hygiene, meals, medication reminders, and transportation.

And, all our reliable in-home amenities can be personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! To learn why Health at Home is quickly becoming the preferred home care choice for Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, St. Lucie County, and Indian River County area families, or to schedule a FREE, in-home care assessment for a senior today, please visit us at: healthathome.care.

Your elderly mother still lives alone in the house you grew up in. Mom’s health hasn’t been the greatest lately, so you’ve been trying to help her out when you have time. But with your job and household to manage, burning the candle at both ends is starting to wear you down. After considering your options, you’ve decided that it might be best to hire a mom as a professional home caregiver. But where do you start? Finding the right in-home caregiver for an aging loved one can be challenging. Taking these steps should help simplify your search.  

Assess Your Loved One’s Needs

You’ll need to sit down and compile a list of your loved one’s daily and weekly caregiving needs. Here are some points to consider:

Mobility

How ambulatory are they? Do they need assistance negotiating stairs or getting up and down?

Mental state

Do they have any type of cognitive impairment, like dementia or Alzheimer’s, that places them at risk in the home?

Transportation

Can they still safely operate a motor vehicle? During a typical week, where does your loved one need to go?

Specific duties

What activities of daily living do they need assistance with? Those might include bathing, toileting, cooking, housework, dressing, exercising, medication management, and food shopping.

Physical limitations

Do they have any other physical limitations, like a swallowing impairment, vision or hearing loss, or incontinence?

Personality

Is your loved one stubborn and short-tempered, or are they easygoing and personable? Finding a professional caregiver with personality traits that compliment your senior is important.

Language barriers

Is your loved one’s primary language something other than English? Do they suffer from aphasia due to a stroke or other medical condition that makes communicating difficult?

Insurance

Medicare and Medicaid typically don’t cover home care services, but some long-term care and life insurance policies do. Find out if your loved one has an LTC insurance policy that will help cover the costs.

Once your “laundry list” is ready, it’s time to explore your professional home caregiver options.

Screen Potential Caregivers

Caregiver qualities you should look for include experience, trustworthiness, and compassion. You can use a home health registry to search for a private independent caregiver or work with a licensed home care agency instead. Here are some ways to get started:

• Discuss the situation first with your senior and immediate family members.
• Get word-of-mouth referrals from trusted sources like friends, family members, or coworkers.
• Seek referrals from medical professionals who are familiar with your loved one’s health condition, including doctors, discharge planners, nurses, and social workers.
• Look online for professional home caregivers in your area and read their client reviews.
• Post a want ad on Craig’s List, LinkedIn or Facebook.
• Check with your local Area Agency on Aging.

Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a handful of candidates, you’ll then need to personally interview each one. Make sure to ask them about:

• Experience and training
• Client references
• Insurance
• Holding a valid driver’s license
• A backup plan if they can’t make it
• Availability, including when there’s an emergency
• Their fees

As the process moves along, you should also conduct criminal and driving background checks on the candidates through municipal and federal databases. There are also online companies that will provide you with a caregiver’s background information for a fee.

Why Choose a Licensed Home Care Agency?

Licensed home care and home healthcare agencies have already done most of the groundwork for you, and their reputations are also known within the medical community. Most state-licensed agencies accept offer flexible hours, screen their caregivers thoroughly, provide ongoing staff training, have backup caregivers when needed, are insured for your protection, and are further equipped to handle special care considerations like emergencies, skilled care, and dementia.

We Provide Family Trusted Home Care for Seniors

Finding a professional home caregiver for an aging loved one can feel overwhelming. At Health at Home, we are a fully licensed and insured agency that carefully screens all our caregivers in advance so that they can keep your senior aging safely and comfortably in place right where they want to be. Our experienced aides are highly trained to perform in-home duties including light housework, personal hygiene, meals, medication reminders, transportation, and companionship.

And, all our family-trusted home care amenities can be individually combined into an affordable package to accommodate any budget! To learn more about Health at Home now, or to schedule a FREE, in-home assessment for a senior today, please visit us at: healthathome.care.

Although they share some similarities, home care and home health care are also quite different. For example, Medicare provides coverage for many home health care services, but not for home care. Whether you’re an elderly care recipient or a concerned family member, knowing how to tell the difference between home care and home health care will no doubt matter when important decisions weigh in the balance. What follows is some information that can help guide your decision-making process. 

What is Senior Home Care?

Home care services are designed to help age-in-place seniors with activities of daily living (ADLs) that they can no longer do on their own. The level of in-home care that’s provided by professional aides varies depending on the situation and ranges from grocery shopping or transportation assistance to bathing and incontinence care.

And although home care aides are trained to understand most aspects of senior care, they are usually not licensed to perform medical services.

Examples of senior home care include:

• Companionship
• Light housekeeping
• Transportation
• Food shopping, meal preparation, and meal deliveries
• Bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Toileting and incontinence care
• Bill paying or financial management assistance
• Medication reminders

Who Might Benefit from Home Care?

In general, otherwise, active older adults who might benefit from home care services include those who:

• Need transportation to and from activities and medical appointments
• Need help with cleaning, cooking, and other household responsibilities
• Feel lonely and isolated in situations when companionship might be beneficial
• Need assistance with personal care

What is Home Health Care?

It is clinical, medical supervision that’s provided by a licensed healthcare professional like a nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or social worker. Home health care services are usually delivered through home health agencies or, in rarer instances, by hospice agencies.

Oftentimes referred to as “skilled” care, and may include these services:

• Wound care and dressing changes
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Administration of prescription medications or shots
• Medical testing
• Monitoring of the recipient’s health status

When Might Home Health Care Be Ordered?

Home health care is usually ordered by a doctor as part of an overall health care program following a hospital stay or serious injury.

Elderly individuals who might benefit from home health care include those who:

• Have recently been discharged from the hospital, a skilled nursing facility, or a rehabilitation center
• Need monitoring after a recent medication change
• Are in fragile health that prevents them from safely traveling to and from appointments
• Are experiencing an overall decline in function and who might benefit from therapy to regain their independence

Who Pays for Senior In-Home Care?

Home health care falls under the medical services umbrella, while home care does not, so insurance providers tend to cover each type differently. Here are some general insurance guidelines to help you during the planning process:

Medicare and private insurance

These plans cover home health services when prescribed by a doctor. Home health care coverage is available to any senior who qualifies for Medicare insurance.

Medicaid

This covers both types of in-home care for income-qualified seniors, although coverage amounts vary by state.

Long-term care (LTC) insurance

If you have an LTC insurance policy it may provide at least some coverage for home care services.

Using a Holistic Caregiving Approach

Some families find that combining both types of in-home services is the best way to maintain their aging loved one’s quality of life- for example after a lengthy hospital stay. Under this holistic caregiving approach, healthcare professionals provide essential medical care, while home care aides assist with ADLs- combining their efforts to ensure that the senior’s physical, mental and emotional needs are being met.

Meeting All the Care Needs of Families We Serve

At Health at Home, we provide reliable home care services for aging-in-place seniors, backed by a compassionate approach that’s designed to maintain both qualities of life and peace of mind. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency, our carefully screened aides perform duties ranging from personal care, companionship, and light housework, to transportation, meals, and medication reminders.

We also accept most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and LTC insurance. To learn more about Health at Home now, or to schedule a FREE in-home assessment for a senior in our service area, please visit us today at: healthathome.care!