As the words imply, private home care is assistance given to people who have trouble taking care of themselves and such service is provided in the comfort of the clients’ homes. Care is given by trained or skilled professionals to ensure that all provisions of health and / or life assistance services are met. More often than not, clients are the elderly or those who have medical conditions that need constant monitoring.
A private home caregiver provides life assistance services, health care or the combination of both. Life assistance services include tasks that we do everyday like bathing, dressing, using the toilet, walking, eating, meal preparation, light housekeeping and running errands. Health care on the other hand includes assistance in taking medicines, wound care and assistance with Range of Motion exercises. Administrative assistance is also provided which includes, but is not limited to, checking doctor appointments and providing companionship.
A lot of families choose to have private caregivers at home because it proves to be more convenient and beneficial for the client and the relatives alike. So why is private home care important?
One reason why this kind of set up outweighs institutional nursing homes is that more attention will be given to the client or patient. Unlike in nursing homes where the residents all share the same staff, in private home care private caregivers will be focused on just one specific patient. This means that the person will be monitored very closely and be provided with any assistance right away.
Another point to consider is that patients will be at ease and will feel more comfortable in their own residence. Unlike in nursing homes where everything is scheduled and rules are implemented, staying in the client’s house actually gives a more relaxing feel. The atmosphere at home is indeed more advantageous for people who are more irritable or sensitive because it will lessen the feelings of being sent away or neglected.
Research also shows that the elderly or the people who have medical conditions recover faster when they get out of the hospital and come home. The ambiance will make the patient feel better which can result to a speedy recovery and improved physical and psychological condition.
Last but not least, staying at home also gives family members or relatives more access to the patient thus making both parties happier. Knowing that one’s elderly relative is given the right amount of care at home gives relief to family members who worry too much but do not have the luxury of time to visit everyday.
However, both the client and the caregiver should be responsible for this kind of setup to work. The provider should be competent, patient, diligent and flexible in order to adjust to his or her patient. He or she must implement the plan of care and make sure that it is provided in accordance to the doctor’s orders. The client on the other hand should make sure that the house is actually a safe environment for care to be provided. It is also a must that he or she goes with the care plans that has been set up and notify the provider with any changes or problems with it. Both parties should benefit when these guidelines are met which will then give way to a long-term client/caregiver relationship.