How to choose between home aged care services and nursing homes

Determining whether geriatric home care services or a nursing home is the right choice for your loved one is important when considering the best type and amount of care. Both options for senior care have their advantages and disadvantages. Cost is often a deciding factor, as is the level of care required.

According to a US News & World Report, while nursing home costs have continued to rise in recent years, home care costs have remained stable. This is good news for families whose loved one needs regular help but not around the clock nursing care. Elderly home care services are charged by the hour and provide only the services your loved one needs. This keeps costs down compared to the much higher annual costs of nursing homes, especially when you consider the fact that many seniors don’t actually need twenty-four hour home care.

When choosing between hospice home care services or a nursing facility, most seniors say they much prefer being independent and living in their own home for as long as they are able to. Home care agencies allow seniors to maintain a higher quality of life while receiving the type of personal home care they need.

Seniors home care services vs. Nursing Homes: What’s Best for Your Loved One?
Factors to consider when weighing the pros and cons of home services and nursing facilities include:

• Health: The physical and mental health conditions of the elderly are among the most important factors. If he or she needs skilled nursing care on a daily basis, a nursing home may be the best option. However, if he is in relatively good health and needs help with daily tasks, such as bathing, using the toilet, hygiene, shopping, cooking, and administering medication, home care is the best option.

• Quality of care: In general, an elderly person you love will receive the same high quality of care regardless of whether it is provided by a senior home care agency or a nursing home. However, you should thoroughly research and interview home care agencies and nursing homes alike. Each will offer different services, benefits, amenities, and activities.

• Cost of care: Unless money is not an option, the cost of care is always a deciding factor when making these difficult decisions. Nursing facilities can be expensive, and although Medicare may cover some nursing home costs, home care services for seniors are always more affordable.

• Quality of life: Unless the elderly person is bedridden and requires regular nursing care, most people agree that your loved one will benefit most from home care for the elderly because they can still live at home surrounded by family and friends.

These are some of the many factors to consider when choosing between home care services for the elderly and nursing homes. Because they are critical decisions you will need to make as your loved one ages, talking with professionals about the benefits of both types of care is important. Evaluate your options and learn more about the type, quality and costs of care by visiting http://www.CambrianHomecare.com Or call 877-422-2270.