Is Home Care Right For My Loved One?

Over 41 million U.S citizens have a chronic health condition that restricts their daily activities in one way or another, and 12 million people are unable to live independently. Of 1/5th of the elders who have attained age 85, more than ½ are impaired and require longterm care — that is, the personal assistance that enables them to continue daily routines such as bathing, eating, and dressing. So how do you decide if home healthcare is right for your loved one? The following will provide insights to help you make the right decision.

We all cherish our independence; it’s one of the perks we enjoy as adults. But as we age, there are certain things that we lose the ability to do on our own. And sometimes, it effects our ability to adequately care for ourselves at home.

Many of these things tend to be crucial to the quality of life we lead. Things inclusive of:

• Running errands

• Cleaning responsibilities

• Medication management

• Personal care

• Meal preparation

• Sticking to a balanced diet routine

Dependence Can Appear Daunting

As our loved ones age, we worry about their ability to adequately care for themselves. Your loved one may depend on your assistance more often to take care of basic life necessities which can weigh on your busy life schedule. When this happens, one of the best ways to alleviate unanticipated inconveniences both to yourself and your loved one is to consider a qualified homecare provider.

What is the Role of Caregiver in Preserving Independence?

An Oxford HealthCare provider can assist with many acts of daily living such as medication management, daily chores, and errands. Our caregivers can also be a platonic companion when you need someone to fall back on. We help you see the silver lining when age-related problems get your loved one down. Our trained staff can help your loved one stay in their own home longer, ensuring caring and safety while on site. Our caregivers also promote and respect their independence as best they can.

The Benefits of Having a Home Caregiver

If you want to opt for home healthcare in Tulsa, but are still undecided, here are some associated benefits that can help you make the right decision:

One on One, Customized Care

When you hire a home healthcare provider, you will be entitled to their complete attention; at least when they are in your home. This tends to be crucial when dealing with age-related illnesses and recovery.

Your Path to Independence

With home healthcare, you will be living right at home. This enables you to preserve your independence which will, in turn, boost your comfort and confidence. These are all qualities that foster a conducive environment for happiness and recovery. 

Keeps You Close to Your Loved Ones

In many instances, ideal nursing homes or assisted living communities may be located at far off locations. This makes it problematic for the family to visit as frequently as they would like. Having a home caregiver guarantees that you are not relocated and taken away from your loved ones.

No Predisposition to Infection

With care at home, you will be avoiding the facilities that house other recovering patients that predispose you to infection. Additionally, hiring an Oxford Home HealthCare provider greatly decreases the chances that the symptoms of an infection or an age-related illness may go overlooked.

Services Beyond Personal Care

An Oxford HealthCare staff member offers you more than just the characteristic personal care services. They also help around the home, prepare meals, run errands, and provide much-needed peace of mind.

Home Care is Very Affordable

This is one of the major deterrents to in-home care nowadays; people think it is an expensive option. The fact of the matter is that employing a home care worker costs a lot less an hour than it does to have yourself admitted to a nursing home.

Ideal Qualities in a Home Care Worker

Just as you would look at the type and qualifications of caregiver to hire, there are specific traits that they should have if this whole arrangement is to function the way you want it to. Here are some of the best qualities to look for in a home-care worker:

Quick Learner

We all have different preferences and needs. You need someone who can learn those preferences and needs quickly so that your loved one can live in harmony.

Willingness to Go the Extra Mile

Hire someone who will be willing to go the extra mile when the need arises.

Responsibility

This entire arrangement is based on how responsible both parties are when it comes to sticking to a schedule. It is absolutely essential when it comes to maintaining a diet and taking medication.

Throughout our many years of experience in caring for those in need, we, at Oxford HealthCare have learned how to help you cope with the frustrations of finding professional care and assistance for someone at home. That is why we offer comprehensive supportive care and home healthcare solutions to help you or your loved one maintain independence—all while remaining in the comfort of your own home. Get in touch with one of our trained Oxford HealthCare staff today to assist with your questions and concerns. Our goal is to provide the help you need, when you need it!

7 Steps to Having the 'Tough Talk' With Your Parents

Planning care for your aging parent is a time consuming, emotionally draining task. While there are many options for elder care, making the best choice is crucial. How much help do they need? Can they still drive? Is it safe for them to continue cooking, cleaning and grooming themselves? These are all questions that Oxford can help you to answer before having ‘the talk.’  In order to sustain a positive conversation leading to the best choice of assistance, starting the conversation early will lead to more beneficial outcomes.

It is pertinent to have in-depth conversations with your loved ones to fully understand their preferences, ensuring a smoother transition. Maintaining open communication and truly listening to their desires allows your loved one to continue to feel their independence. You achieve a positive dialogue with patience, kindness, understanding and problem-solving teamwork. We have outlined a step-by-step approach to analyzing your parents’ behavior and finding the perfect, personalized care routine for their comfort.

1)    Assess their behaviors (grooming, house cleaning, cooking, driving, etc.)

2)    Lightly brush the subject of their independence by referring to someone else you may know who now receives help

3)    Review their reactions to help guide your approach to the talk

4)    Research the available options in their community so that you can steer the conversation with facts, granting them the possibility to make the most educated decision, leading to a higher likelihood of happiness

5)    Have the conversation: start with light, fun topics to open their warmth and receptiveness to the difficult discussion. Always approach the options with a teamwork mindset, problem-solving together for the best solution.

6)    Allow time for your loved one to assess their options and needs

7)    Softly approach the conversation until a decision is made. If necessary, you may need to get the family doctor involved to decide on a solution.

Although the conversation is difficult for everyone involved, it is best to start early and hash out a plan for your loved one’s optimal future. At Oxford HealthCare, our knowledgeable staff can help guide you and your family each step of the way to ensure a comfortable future for your loved one with a personalized care plan. What are you waiting for? Spring forward with Oxford; let’s get the conversation started today.