Americans, as a standard, are an independent people. This makes sense given that freedom and independence were foundational tenets of our nation. Today’s seniors also come from a strong and proud generation. For many seniors, the idea of losing their independence due to an injury, illness, or age-related degeneration is more troubling than thoughts of passing on. Thankfully, with Comfort Keepers at home care, even seniors who struggle with daily living tasks can safely remain in their own homes.
Research suggests that seniors who are able to remain at home are happier and healthier than those who spend their senior years in a nursing home. Granted, part of this is because nursing homes tend to take in seniors with the most severe health issues, but, even among those with similar challenges, seniors who receive care at home tend to fare better.
The Advantage of Care At Home
One of the primary advantages to receiving care at home and aging in place is decreased stress and anxiety. Remaining in one’s own home, surrounded by memories and personal conveniences, is not just comforting, it can be cathartic. In addition to items, seniors who remain at home tend to stick to their own schedules, routines, and plans. For those who may be set in their ways, not having to turn their world upside down and learn new routines and ways of institutional living is a tremendous benefit.
Care at home also decreases stress and anxiety associated with “being a burden”. While many seniors receive wonderful care and support from family caregivers, many still struggle knowing the strain they place on their family and friends. Even when family members truly don’t mind providing the care, seniors often grapple emotionally with the idea. Professional caregivers make seniors feel more self-reliant and independent since they are not leaning on family and friends for care and support.
Topping off the reduction of stress and anxiety related to care at home is the concept of choice. With Comfort Keepers home care, seniors still choose how they want their clothes folded, what foods they want to eat, what shows they want to watch, how they want their hair styled, where they want to go and when, and so forth. Even in areas where care and support are provided, the senior’s voice is heard and respected. It is hard to feel truly independent when such foundational choices are taken away, yet, in an institutional setting, many of these choices must be relinquished for the sake of group safety and logistics.
In short, when seniors require support to remain independent, care at home allows them to receive this support in the comfort and convenience of their own residence. This lowers stress and anxiety, promotes feelings of self-worth and self-reliance, and helps maximize quality of life.
