February 15, 2023
One of the best things about human beings is that every one of them is altogether unique, and that does not change simply because of growing older. As we age, we remain the complex people that we have been our whole lives. Assuming that all seniors will act the same and require the same things is a cookie cutter approach that just will not work for seniors or the family members who take care of them. Providing care to older individuals requires an innovative and thoughtful approach that allows the caregiver to fully understand the person and their specific needs. This will help to identify the best plan of care to keep the individual healthy and safe at home.
In the same way that there are many different types of people with different needs, there are also numerous different types of in-home senior care services and providers. Understanding what kinds of services, or combinations of services, are ideal for an older loved one can help the individual live a happier, healthier life at home. Partnering with a trusted senior care agency like Continuum, a leading provider of Chesterfield companion care and services in nearby areas, is also incredibly important.
How Can a Geriatric Care Assessment Help?
When it’s time to obtain home care services for a loved one, a geriatric care assessment for daily function, depression, and mental status is a critical step that a high-quality home care service company will provide to decide which types of services are suggested for an older adult.
The goal of a geriatric care assessment is to:
- Assess all of the concerns and difficulties that an older adult is experiencing
- Create a care plan to recommend interventions for recognized issues
- Evaluate an older adult’s access to supports that can help them safely remain living at home
- Determine care needs and the frequency of care that should be provided
After completion, a geriatric care assessment can result in:
- Improved health outcomes
- Postponing the onset of impairment
- Proactively being prepared for changes in health before they manifest
- Enhanced quality of life
- Saving on health care costs
- Identifying rehabilitation needs
- Planning services to increase safety
- Identifying early-stage disease
- Determining a person’s ability to care for himself or herself
- Identifying and correcting fall risks
During a geriatric care assessment, a home care provider should take their time to get to know the person for whom care will be provided – their life background, likes and dislikes, and character traits. Time should also be dedicated to getting to know the individual’s family better. Knowing family dynamics, personal history, interests, and more can all help home care providers tailor the care they provide for the unique people they serve.
At Continuum, we’re committed to supporting the freedom and dignity of each person we serve. When health conditions and life stages lead to the need for a little help or even around-the-clock care, we know the changes that follow can be complex, emotional and daunting. We can help you assess a loved one’s care needs and determine the ideal type of in-home care services to ensure the person maintains independence at home. Contact us today to schedule your free in-home assessment or to find out more about our Chesterfield companion care and caregiving services in the surrounding areas.