If you’re wondering why home care is essential for your loved one, consider these reasons: Reducing hospital readmissions, preserving independence, and reducing caregiver burnout. The benefits of home care go far beyond the obvious. Read on to learn why it’s so important. You’ll be glad you did. Then, read on for other reasons home care is essential for loved ones. Listed below are just a few.
Reduces hospital readmissions
Using a home care agency to assist with daily living tasks can help to reduce the number of hospital readmissions. In addition, these services help people with disabilities stay at home. Although home care agencies are not a cure-all, they provide valuable protection against hospital readmission like the sustained personal home care Brooklyn, NY. For example, if a client cannot leave his home for a visit, they can hire a home care agency to take care of his family’s needs.
While home care costs less than an SNF, it does not offer the continuous monitoring and care available in a skilled nursing facility. Moreover, most hospitals would prefer to discharge patients to a skilled nursing facility instead of allowing them to live in their own homes. In addition, they provide 24-hour patient oversight and supervision. As a result, although the number of hospitals participating in alternative payment models has declined, all are at risk of the penalties with the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program.
Reduces costs
One recent study found that patients who receive home health care spend about $6500 less than those who get the same type of care from an institution over a year. These cost savings are independent of reducing readmissions and deaths, measured at follow-up 365 days after discharge. Researchers matched 64,541 patients with 11,266 control patients to 6363 who received home health care. The study found that the overall cost of home health care was $6,433 less than institutional care. In addition, the cost savings were found to be $15233, even after controlling for covariates. In addition to the decreased costs of institutional care, patients discharged from home health care also experienced greater physical activity.
The researchers identified six significant areas of waste in health care. These include overtreatment, failure to coordinate care, fraud and abuse, and administrative complexity. In light of this information, home care is an essential cost-saving intervention. Humana, an insurance company, has often touted home health care benefits. The more frequently home care is used, the lower the health care system will likely become. A recent study by Humana found that home health care saved consumers and taxpayers as much as 52% more than hospital care.
Preserves independence
Aging in place allows older adults to maintain their independence by retaining a personal assistant or hiring a caregiver. A personal assistant can help individuals with physical limitations complete daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They can also use home management and personal care assistance to help them with errands and tasks. A care advisor can offer guidance about these options and help an individual decide whether they are ready to self-direct their care or not. Financial management services may also help with payroll and other financial aspects of the caregiving process.
When choosing home care for an elderly loved one, consider the importance of preserving the senior’s independence. Although it can be complex, several activities a caregiver can facilitate will encourage independence and improve a senior’s quality of life. Physical activity is especially beneficial for senior citizens, as it helps prevent falls and other serious physical injuries. Being active also has positive health benefits. The caregiver can provide the appropriate level of assistance.
Reduces caregiver burnout
Several caregivers are affected by caregiver burnout. Many of these individuals are dependent on outside support, such as family or friends. If you are one of those individuals, you may be struggling to find help. However, there are ways to cope with the stresses and strains of caregiving. Here are some ways to reduce your risk of caregiver burnout. Keep these tips in mind, and you will be well on your way to avoiding caregiver burnout.
Caregivers experience emotional and physical exhaustion. They may feel isolated and unappreciated. They may develop depression and lose interest in caring for their loved ones. Caregivers often neglect their own needs out of busyness or a lack of self-care. They may also become impatient with the person they care for. Regardless of the cause, caregiver burnout is not something to ignore. To prevent caregiver burnout, take the time to seek support.