We know that most people wish to remain in their own homes as they age, and we’ve seen an increasing number of older Australians opting to continue living at home to maintain their independent lifestyles. There are a number of benefits that come with choosing to age in place, but over time, certain things may become difficult to do around the home, and the need for support in the form of family and friends will be relied upon.
That said, a survey conducted by The CareSide1 revealed valuable information when it comes to Australian seniors and their preferences on where they want to live as they age. The findings showed that a significant majority – 7 in 10 seniors – would prefer to age in place and receive home care. That’s a staggering 68 per cent. Government data on aged care services shows the number of people receiving home care packages increased by 142% from 2009 to 2019. Among Australians who receive aged care services of any kind, 36% used home care packages in 2019, compared to only 21% in 2009.
Home care services offer many benefits for older adults, allowing them to stay in familiar surroundings for as long as possible, while providing peace of mind to their family members. With the right care and support, home care allows you or your loved one to receive professional, personalised care and long-term assistance without having to make a big lifestyle change, such as moving into residential aged care or assisted living.
At Home Care Assistance, we take a unique approach to the care of older Australians, by offering personalised services and care management to each and every individual. We are able to achieve this by attracting the most innovative, creative, compassionate and committed employees, who are the very heart and soul of our business.
Our Care Workers are insured and trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, post-hospitalisation care, as well as state-specific covid-19 safe techniques, and more. The care team’s goal is not just matching individuals to Care Workers but working with families to create personalised care plans that ensure optimal quality of life for their loved one. We seek to optimise the wellness of older Australians and bring energy, independence and joy in this special phase of life, through programs that define our approach to in-home care.
Home care can range from a few hours a week to 24/7 support offering services and benefits such as:
- Meal preparation with a focus on making sure your loved one is getting adequate nutrition, which is important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes
- Grocery shopping and other errands
- Medication reminders
- Cognitive engagement through conversation, hobbies, games and other activities
- Physical activity such as taking walks or doing light exercise, which can help improve gait, balance and energy
- Light housekeeping, including laundry, dishes and cleaning
- Personal care and hygiene, such as bathing, dressing and eating
- Transportation, like taking loved ones to appointments or on social outings
Our services include 24-hour Care, Hourly Care, Hospital to Home Care and Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.
In addition to this, Home Care Assistance also offers programs that are individually tailored to suit your loved one’s needs, including The Balanced Care Method™2. With a focus on total wellness, The Balanced Care Method™ is an evidence-based program built on studies that demonstrate that only one-third of our longevity is based on genetics and two-thirds on lifestyle factors within our control.
At Home Care Assistance, our Care Workers are trained in the Balanced Care Method, offering the first senior care solution with an emphasis on balance and longevity. Our Balanced Care Method™ training teaches the importance of nutrition, exercise, social ties, mental and spiritual health, and how all these things can contribute to longevity and well-being for seniors and individuals of all ages.
Aging in place with the support of professional assistance tailored to suit your loved one’s needs, is beneficial on so many levels. It’s small wonder that an increasing number of Australian seniors are opting for home care.
Support of an in-home care agency like Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefit and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance has viable solutions when it comes to supporting independent living. For more information, get in touch with a Home Care Assistance near me today.
References
1 https://www.thecareside.com.au/post/australians-want-to-age-in-place/
2 https://www.homecareassistance.com.au/balanced-care-method/
