Right at Home Helps Families Sort through In-Home Care Options for Aging Loved Ones

Rapidly Expanding In-Home Care Industry Answers Call from Seniors Seeking to Remain Independent at Home

Omaha, NE, December 2, 2008 – Among the expanding population of senior-aged residents, the desire to age in place and remain independent is growing. This increasing demand has given way to a rapidly expanding in-home senior care industry. In 1996, the U.S. in-home senior care market was $86 billion; by 2030 it is estimated to reach $490 billion.

Despite the rise of the industry, many families with aging loved ones remain uncertain about the options available through professional in-home care services. Right at Home, a leading in-home care agency providing professional companion and personal care for seniors and others, recognizes the need for further clarity and offer guidance to help family caregivers and their loved ones sort through in-home care options.

Professional in-home care agencies

Unlike other business models serving in-home care clients, professional in-home care providers put a stronger emphasis on offering trained, fully screened, insured and bonded caregivers. Professional in-home care providers offer caregivers for as little as a few hours a week, when a family caregiver simply needs respite, to 24 hours a day.
Professional in-home care businesses provide a wide range of services that are broken down into two distinct categories: companion care and personal care. On the whole, companion care does not involve significant client contact. It includes services ranging from meal preparation and medication reminders to laundry and shopping.
In contrast, physical contact is a necessity for individuals who need personal care assistance with activities in their daily life. Bathing, toileting and eating are common personal care services.

Flexibility of professional in-home care agencies

Companion and personal care services can be administered in a variety of settings including a client’s home, hospital, nursing care facility, hospice center, assisted living facility and retirement center. In every case, the use of a caregiver can be a welcome respite for family members who act as the primary caregiver and face emotional and physical stress.

Important Reminders for Families Seeking In-Home Senior Care

To be certain that professional caregivers will deliver the services their loved ones need, families should make sure that the agency has:

• Completed and documented all background checks (including criminal history and state abuse registry in addition to work references);
• Matched the care recipient with the right caregiver;
• There is an immediate plan in place for a replacement caregiver should the caregiver become ill; and that
• Procedures in place to keep you informed of your loved one’s progress through reports and updates.