Older Americans Month
May marks Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the lives and contributions of people ages 65 and older. Older Americans are living longer, more productive lives than ever before, and they constitute a growing segment of the U.S. population. According to the 2020 Census, more than 55 million people aged 65 and older live in America today, and those numbers will grow in the coming years. By 2030, every member of the Baby Boomer generation will be over 65. By 2040, 22% of the U.S. population will be over the age of 65.
Aging and retirement bring new opportunities for community and family engagement, but they can also bring new health concerns. As our older Americans age, they should know the options they have in their healthcare journey.
What Is Home Health Care?
The majority of older adults prefer to live at home, even if they have health conditions that require frequent care. Home health care services allow individuals with long-term or chronic conditions or people recovering from an illness or injury to be in a comfortable, stress-free environment while still getting the support they need. Home care can be a short-term or long-term service. Choosing home health may prevent unnecessary hospitalizations in the future and speed up recovery.
Home health care services can be adapted to the individual’s needs. Home health provides work with the individual’s doctor to make a care plan. Each plan will be tailored to the health and well-being of the person receiving care. Our services ensure that the home environment is conducive to supporting the healthcare needs of older adults. Our care providers focus on the following:
- Hospital-to-home transition following an illness or injury
- Patient and caregiver education
- Managing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, pulmonary disease, or kidney disease
What Is Hospice Care?
Many families find that end-of-life care for a loved one comes with complex medical and emotional needs. Hospice care is a health service to address the needs of individuals and families facing a life-limiting illness. Hospice services can be delivered in the home so individuals can live their last days with respect, peace, and dignity in familiar surroundings.
A hospice care team includes a hospice volunteer, registered nurse, social worker, home health aide, and chaplain. The care team and the family determine the care plan, and hospice staff will work with families to make any necessary changes.
Choosing Your Home Health or Hospice Provider
Our services are focused on managing pain and increasing comfort for the individual. In addition, hospice care offers resources for emotional and spiritual health, as well as managing the person’s physical needs. The hospice care team will also be available for family members who need support during this challenging time.
If you or a loved one needs care at home, you have many choices of home health and hospice providers. Only you and your family can know which provider is the right option for your needs. Your hospital or physician can advise you on your options, but the choice is ultimately up to you.
To learn more about the services we provide, contact us at 1-877-699-3303.
