As we age, we stay the unique and complex people that we have been our entire lives. Presuming that all seniors will act the same and have a need for the same things is a one-size-fits-all approach that just will not work when it comes to providing care. Providing care to older adults requires an innovative and thoughtful approach that allows the caregiver to learn just who the individual is and what their distinct needs are. Only then can they identify the best plan of care to keep the individual healthy and safe at home. The ideal place to begin to accomplish this is with a geriatric assessment.
Just as there are many different types of people with unique needs, there is also a variety of in-home senior care services and providers. Knowing what kinds of services, or combinations of services, are ideal for someone you love can help the individual live a happier, healthier life at home. Working with a trusted senior care provider like Carolina Hearts Home Care, a provider of senior care in Ellerbe and the surrounding communities, is also incredibly important.
When it’s time to explore home care services for a loved one, a geriatric care evaluation for daily function, depression, and mental status is a crucial step that a high-quality home care service company will provide to figure out which types of services are suggested for an older adult.
What Is a Geriatric Assessment?
A geriatric care assessment is intended to:
- Uncover all of the concerns and challenges that an older adult might be enduring
- Develop a care plan to recommend solutions for recognized issues
- Assess an older adult’s access to supports that can help them safely remain living at home
- Identify care needs and the frequency of care that should be provided
After completion, a geriatric care assessment can lead to:
- Improved health outcomes
- Postponing the onset of impairment
- Understanding changes in health before they develop
- Improved quality of life
- Saving on health care costs
- Identifying rehabilitation needs
- Planning services to boost safety
- Identifying early-stage disease
- Determining a senior’s capability to care for himself or herself
- Identifying and correcting fall hazards
During a geriatric 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 personality. Time should also be dedicated to getting to know the individual’s family better. Understanding family dynamics, personal history, hobbies and interests, and more can all help home care providers personalize the care they provide for the unique people they serve.
At Carolina Hearts Home Care, our experts in senior care in Ellerbe and the nearby areas are committed to supporting the independence and dignity of each person we serve. When health conditions and life stages result in the need for a little support or even full-time care, we know the changes that follow can be complex, emotional and overwhelming. We can help you assess a loved one’s care needs and determine the best level of in-home care services to ensure the person maintains independence at home. Get in touch with us today at 1-855-277-2005 to find out more or to schedule your free in-home assessment.
