An in-home care consultation provides information on senior care options.
You’ve just finished speaking to Mom on the telephone, and now have a concern that something is not completely right. Even though it was a pleasant conversation, her lapses in memory were concerning. She assured you that she is totally fine – that she is eating very well (despite the fact that she could not recall what she had for lunch), taking her medications, and having no issue keeping up with the household chores. If you are interested in exploring senior care options to help ensure a loved one is safe, an excellent first step would be to schedule an in-home assessment from a trustworthy home care provider like Grace Home Care, providers of expert caregivers providing home health in Topeka, KS. This permits a knowledgeable, objective third party professional to talk with the senior within the comfort of home, while assessing various critical areas.
The Older Adult’s Overall Wellbeing
Over the course of the consultation, the home care expert will find out how the senior is feeling, both physically and emotionally.
- Is he or she bored or lonely?
- Physically active?
- Balanced and steady, or at an increased risk for a fall?
Additionally, cognitive healthfulness is reviewed.
- Is the senior forgetful?
- Are there concerns with wandering, agitation, aggression, confusion?
- Does he or she seem capable of successfully managing the household?
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)
It’s essential for a senior living independently to be able to attend to daily tasks that fall under two categories: ADLs and IADLs.
ADLs include activities such as:
- Self-feeding
- Showering/bathing and other personal hygiene needs
- Getting dressed
- Using the toilet
- Moving from bed to chair and throughout the home independently
IADLs are less fundamental, yet still vital to independent living, and include:
- Housekeeping
- Planning and preparing meals
- Shopping and running errands
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Making and receiving phone calls
- Bill paying/money management
The House Environment
The in-home consultant can likewise assess the senior’s living space for any possible risks and hazards, such as:
- Issues that may contribute to a fall: low-lying furniture, clutter or cords in the older adult’s walking paths, stairways without proper handrails, no grab bars in the bathroom, loose throw rugs, and much more
- If there are fresh foods readily available which are not past the expiration date, moldy, etc.
- Whether there are any indications of accidents, such as burn marks on the counters or scorched pots/pans
- Unopened mail piled up
- Dirty dishes stacked on the counters, or any other indicators of problems with maintaining the home to healthy standards
Based on the outcome of the assessment, the home care professional can prepare a personalized care plan that will outline the ways an in-home caregiver can help tackle any difficulties being encountered. Often with only a little support, seniors can continue to live and thrive at home where it is most comfortable, with enhanced safety to bring families peace of mind, while never sacrificing the older adult’s freedom and independence.
Get in touch with Grace Home Care to arrange for a free in-home consultation for an older adult you love today! You can connect with us any time online or at 785-286-2273 to learn more about senior care options and our award-winning caregivers providing home health in Topeka, KS.