As family members age, their needs change. Tasks that were once simple can become difficult or even overwhelming. Perhaps the seniors have difficulty grasping pan handles, or maybe they're forgetful enough to leave the stovetop on overnight.
If your aging family member doesn't need intensive or specialist care, a personal care home might be the ideal solution. These residences consist of private and semi-private rooms often run by private families also living in the home. Here are some of the benefits of personal care homes for seniors:
1. The Families Provide Board
Food preparation is one of the big issues that plagues senior citizens. Whether they suffer from the above ailments or they're simply too tired to cook regularly, mealtime is one of the first self-care tasks to go. Personal care homes provide full board, and they can usually honor dietary restrictions so your senior family member is guaranteed regular, nourishing meals.
2. The Homes Have Safety Features
Mobility is another issue that affects senior citizens. Sometimes they don't move as fast as they used to, or sometimes they need a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Personal care homes offer most of the same features as full-fledged senior living homes. These safety features include grab bars, wheelchair ramps, safety rails, and emergency call buttons.
3. Seniors Don't Get as Lonely
As Senior Lifestyle Magazine points out, senior citizens sometimes become lonely. They don't work anymore, and family members with jobs might find day-to-day demands too taxing for regular visiting. A personal care home usually houses between two to ten seniors, affording your family member many opportunities for interaction.
4. The Families Might Organize Trips
Along with loneliness, senior citizens often get bored. If they're unable to drive, they may be limited in the outside activities they can enjoy. Some personal care homes organize activities for their senior residents. These activities depend on the home and location, but they can often be customized to suit the residents. Organizers might even be amenable to personal outings.
5. The Homes are More Personal
One of the biggest advantages of personal care homes is just that — they're personal. Your senior family member is living in a house, not a large-scale facility. As noted, the homeowners often live in the home, too, so they're on-site for all of your loved one's needs.
6. Seniors Can Get Regular Medical Care
Most personal care homes don't rise to the level of nursing or memory care homes. However, they can assist your senior family member with taking medications. They can also help them make and reach doctor's appointments.
When your loved one needs extra care, consider a personal care facility.
