Sometimes it’s really obvious that an older person is needing some assistance in the home to stay safe and have quality of life. However, sometimes the changes the person is experiencing are subtle and slow to develop. Now is when you need a professional to help assess what may be required to keep a loved one at home. Catalina In-home Services has specially trained and experienced registered nurses who will come to the home and let you know what the older adult needs in terms of supervision and care. Our nurses will develop a personalized care plan. Very importantly, they will aid in choosing a really good match to a caregiver.
Our team considers the older adult’s physical needs such as mobility, strength and stamina, balance and other features such as hearing or eyesight limitations. Our nurses can assess the mental health of the older adult for potential dementia, depression or other difficulties. They also look at the person’s background and interests. Does this client have pets that have needs as well? Are there family members in the home or nearby? Can they still drive their own car or do they need someone to take them on all their errands and outings?
These are just a few of the questions the nurse sorts out with the team to choose a caregiver who will promote the quality of life as well as protect the safety and dignity of the older adult.
Now, how do you graciously introduce having some assistance in the home to your loved one? This may not be an easy conversation to have but you need to do it as soon as you see a possible challenge for your loved one living alone. Here are some edited tips from an article on the AARP website: http://tinyurl.com/ydvphewk
“Don’t put off the talk. The conversation is so much easier when it’s theoretical. What if…?
Ease into it. Treat it like a yearly routine check in. Introduce it bit by bit. For example, start by offering to hire someone for a task you relative doesn’t like, such as cleaning house.
Don’t command. Include your loved one in any decisions. We need to be careful to not treat elders as children.
Reframe their thinking. It isn’t about losing Independence, it’s about trying to preserve it.
Turn the tables. Remind your loved one that by accepting help, they are easing your fears and making your life less stressful as the caregiver.”
Remember that our service is available 24/7 to support and care for your loved one.
