Page 12 - Scene Magazine 41-08 August 2016
P. 12

Health Scene
Personal Care Helps Older Adults Stay at Home
The majority of older adults prefer to live in the comfort of their own home. This can be challenging for those coping with injury, illness, aging, or surgery. Thankful- ly, there is a solution – home care.
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates 41.3 million adults were over the age of 65 in 2012, and predicts that number to grow to 83.7 million by 2050. Conse- quently, there will be a strong need for home care agencies and personal care services.
Activities of Daily living
Many people are familiar with med- ical care provided in the home, but few are aware of personal care. Unlike skilled nursing, personal care helps with activities of daily living, also called ADLs. This includes:
• Bathing
• Dressing
• Using the toilet
• Transferring (to or from bed or chair)
• Caring for incontinence
• Eating
There are also instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) including:
• Housework
• Medication reminders
• Preparing and cleaning up after meals
• Shopping, errands and medical
appointments using the telephone or
other communication devices
• Caring for pets
Providing assistance with ADLs and IADLs enables adults to stay in their home for as long as possible. In turn, they are much more comfortable and of- ten happier being able to stay in the en- vironment they prefer.
Benefits of Personal Care
In addition to comfort and conve- nience, personal care offers many bene- fits.
Customized Care Plan – One of the greatest benefits of home care is that it’s tailored to individual needs. Bronson at Home collaborates with family mem- bers and other care providers to create a customized plan. Personal care services are linked to Bronson’s electronic health record so all providers are informed and can work together easily. Families may opt for a few hours of help a week or around-the-clock 24/7 care.
Improved Health – Personal care staff can include personal care aides,
certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. These caregivers are able to help with medicine reminders and nutrition. Bron- son nurses oversee all other caregivers coming to the home. Having nursing oversight helps detect changes or de- clines in a client’s health before it be- comes an emergency.
Specialized Care – Bronson at Home ensures all caregivers are spe- cially trained for care of clients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. This is important so loved ones are treated with the utmost dignity, respect and understanding.
Safer Environment – Bronson at Home caregivers help clients perform activities they struggle to do alone. This reduces the risk for injury. It also allows the opportunity for caregivers to identify barriers around the home. They may rec- ommend the installation of grab bars or a shift in furniture for improved mobility and safety.
Companionship – Some clients are lonely and simply want a friend – some- body to talk to. Many older adults can feel isolated in their homes. Compan- ionship from personal caregivers offers social and cognitive benefits.
Reprieve for Family Members – In many instances, it is the responsibility of family members to help their loved ones. Personal care staff can help by taking over some of those responsibili- ties so families can have peace of mind. Accepting a helping hand from Bronson at Home enables families to refuel, and ultimately provide better care for their loved one.
learn More about Bronson at Home
To find out how Bronson at Home personal care services can meet your family’s needs, visit bronsonathome. com or call (269) 245-3800.
Note: All personal care staff must pass an extensive screening process pri- or to employment. This includes a back- ground check, drug test and FBI finger- printing. Bronson at Home services are recognized by The Joint Commission with the Gold Seal of Approval.
100
 80
 60
 40
 20
  0
Estimated Number of Adults Older than 65
83.7
41.3
2012 2050 Estimated Number of Adults Older than 65 Increase of Older Adults
12 SCENE 4108 I BACK-TO-SCHOOL
Number of adults in millions


































































































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