Home health care is quickly becoming the preferred method of caring for patients as technology improves and treatments that could once only be done in a hospital can now be done at home.
Home health care is a safe and affordable option for giving families peace of mind that their loved one is being properly cared for in the comfort of their own home. This article will tell you more about what home health care is and some unexpected benefits of this care model.
What is Home Health Care?
Home health care encompasses a variety of health services provided by professional caregivers to the specific needs of the patient in the comfort of their own home. These services can include skilled nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, speech-language therapy and medical social services. These medical professionals work with a patient’s doctor to create a care plan that helps get the patient back to optimal health.
Why is Home Health Care Important?
Home health care is quickly becoming an important model of care for several reasons. First, technological advances in medicine have made it easier to administer treatments in home settings. Additionally, as more Baby Boomers reach retirement age, the United States healthcare system is not adequately prepared to support the level of care required of this age group in a traditional hospital setting. Home health care presents an opportunity for patients to receive quality, personalized care in the comfort of their own homes, while reserving resources in the hospital for those with the most critical care needs.
What are the Benefits of Home Health Care?
Here are a few of the key benefits of home health care.
Reducing Falls and Readmissions
Fall-related injuries are one of the top causes of hospital readmissions, especially for older adults who are already prone to falls. Home health care services can prevent unnecessary falls and subsequent hospital readmissions by providing patient education, monitoring patient recovery, and making adjustments to a patient’s home to prevent falls.
Get Help with Housework
Many certified nursing assistants and home health aides are able to provide light housekeeping for patients, such as wiping down counters, preparing meals, and washing dishes. These tasks help the patient continue to live independently while they recover.
Prevents Burnout of Family Caregivers
Home health care provides benefits not just to patients, but their family members. It can be taxing for family members to take on the role of caregiver during an injury or illness. Professional in-home care services can give families peace of mind that their loved ones are well-cared for.
Adapts to a Patient’s Changing Care Needs
Since patients receive one-on-one care, treatments are easily adaptable to the changing needs of the individual.
Receive Hospital-Level Care at Home
One of the most important benefits of home health care is that patients receive high-quality care in the comfort of their own homes. Care plans are determined by a physician and executed by certified medical professionals who make up an individual’s home health care team.
If you think you or a loved one could benefit from home health care services, there are plenty of options right here in the Philadelphia area. To get started, talk to your physician and contact our team at Care and Help Home Care, LLC. Visit 4theseniors.com to learn more.