Live in Care Makes All the Difference

There are a number of risk factors facing seniors who live alone in New York City, but despite all of them, aging at home remains the number one priority for almost all seniors (9 in 10, to be precise). Falls, medication mistakes, malnutrition, and social isolation and depression are all serious concerns for seniors who want to age in place, especially in the city. These challenges are all surmountable with the right planning and family involvement. But what are you supposed to do if you simply can’t provide all the attention your older loved one might need? You have a lot of options, but a live in caregiver is the most effective way to reduce common risks to seniors.

Falls

Falling injuries are one of the most serious risks facing seniors who live alone. Aging brings on a number of physical challenges and changes that necessitate a shift in how seniors use and perceive their homes. Eyesight changes mean that seniors begin to lose some of their ability to perceive depth, and it becomes harder for their eyes to adjust from sudden changes from light to dark or back again. That can make it difficult to navigate a room after turning off the lights while getting ready for bed. Physical changes to functions like balance can also make the stairs intimidating and rugs a hazard. Remove throw rugs and low-lying furniture that will only serve to get under foot. A live in caregiver can also help seniors manage the stairs or get in and out of the tub. You can prevent debilitating injuries with the help of home health care services in New York City. Hip fractures are serious injuries – 20% of all older adults who suffer from a hip fracture do not survive beyond 12 months of their injury.

Medications

Studies have shown that up to a quarter of all American seniors are prescribed five medications or more. Meanwhile, possibly as much as a third of the population over the age of 85 is presently taking more than ten medications at once. A burgeoning list of medications coupled with memory loss is a recipe for mistakes. Half of all seniors taking more than five medications concurrently have been hospitalized as a result of an error. Although there are a number of medication reminder aids available, part of a live in caregiver’s job is to help organize medications. Families can also keep up with changes to their loved one’s medication schedule through apps such as the one developed by New York City’s Mavencare. It puts things like daily routines and medication schedules in the family’s hands. Updating your loved one’s medication schedule is as easy checking your email with apps like those developed by Mavencare.

Isolation

Seniors who live alone are also at a high risk of depression caused by social isolation. Limited mobility may prevent them from visiting friends as much as they used to, or they may be grieving the loss of a spouse or a friend. Live in caregivers are also valuable companions for seniors. Live in caregivers provide some valuable companionship while helping out with basic chores, like meal preparation. They chat, play games, and help seniors get out of the house. Talk to a homecare agency today to find out how you can get help for your older loved one.

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