As our population continues to rapidly age, home care will continue to benefit seniors, their families, the overall health system, and the economy, according to a recent report.
This week, the Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) released Caring for America’s Seniors: The Value of Home Care. It’s packed with data and statistics about our aging society, and how home care provides the tools families need to keep their loved ones safe and at home.
SOME KEY FINDINGS INCLUDE:
- 40% of adults age 65+ require daily assistance, and 70% will at some point
- 25% fewer doctor visits occur when home care is in place
- $25 billion a year in hospital costs is saved thanks to home care
- $13.4 billion a year in annual employer health care costs is saved by using home care services
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT
The data reinforces what most of us see up close: In-home care is an important element in any outcome-focused plans for responding to an aging population.
From the national perspective, these data points are compelling. But at the family level, what does it mean for individuals who are struggling with the challenges of caring for an older loved one?
In-Home Care’s Benefits to Families
When we’re faced with a new or a growing need for care, the most important priority is to make sure your elderly family member is safe, healthy, and loved.
That’s easier to do in the place the individual feels most comfortable. For about nine in ten seniors, that’s at home. And in-home care is an important tool for individuals who want to live safely in their homes as long as possible.
The report confirms that more Americans are requiring care than ever before. As time goes on, most of us will face choices in providing care to aging parents and other relatives.
As caregiving professionals, we constantly renew our commitment to working with families to find the solution and the combination of services that meet their unique needs. Our offices offer resources for resolving conflicts that arise from the Caregiving Dilemma, so families can choose what’s best for them.
One resource we offer at Caring Hearts is a list of conversation techniques based on the principles of inclusion and choice that is meant to help you discuss care options with an older family member. With a little thought and preparation, any family can start an open and honest dialogue that can lead to a plan for the future that everybody agrees to and understands.
Be sure to follow Caring Hearts on Facebook and Pinterest for more helpful tips. You can also find the HCAOA on Facebook here.