During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, many families weigh options for long term care for their loved ones. The risks of moving a senior to a facility when the senior community has been especially hit hard by COVID-19 is extremely stressful. Taking measures to isolate and significantly limit exposure is challenging for seniors who benefit from socialization and need help with daily living activities or supervision because of cognitive impairments.
More than 40% of all US COVID-19 deaths involve skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). This is causing families to think more seriously about moving their loved ones home. In fact, over 50% of family members are now more likely to choose in-home care for their loved ones than the number of families who made this choice before the coronavirus.
Nearly 2 in 10 Americans aged 70 and older face challenges in accomplishing daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, ambulating, preparing meals, or grocery shopping independently. These challenges can pose significant risks to health and quality of life unless the seniors receive support from family members, caregivers, or other community resources.
Traditionally, many families have looked to senior living facilities to ensure their aging loved ones received the level of care they needed to remain safe and healthy. However, with healthcare agencies like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) telling us that COVID-19 spreads easily from person to person, and the recognition that this makes some senior living communities riskier environments, thoughts on aging in place are shifting.
This is not a decision to make lightly, and families need to realize that remaining at home also poses risks for seniors who need support with ADLs. Without proper home care assistance from a trained professional by a licensed home care company, like Synergy Homecare, some patients are in danger of risk from an injury that can lead to more serious and expensive care is necessary.
Home care is often less costly than moving a loved one to a senior living facility. This is because, with homecare, you only pay for the hours and services your loved one needs. For many seniors, home care can accommodate them and provide the safe and comfortable home environment that they need. Contact Synergy Homecare today to speak with an intake specialist. We are happy to help answer any questions you have.
