In the past few years almost 9 million people received support from long term health care service agencies. Some remained at home while others had their help from skilled nursing services at hospices, residential care communities and adult day care service centers. With more than one out of every eight Americans joining the classification of senior, it has become more and more important that they receive the type of care they require. For many of the elderly, the only way they will be able to continue to function in a healthy manner is if they receive some form of long-term care.
Being Healthy At Home
For those who want to stay in their home, home care is an essential component of any care plan. For many seniors, the demands may be light. They may ask for and can receive specific services that will normalize their home life. Among the most common are:
* Personal Care: These usually consist of such things as dressing, bathing, grooming, dental hygiene and related activities
* Housekeeping: Light tasks can be performed by any caregiver including certain housework as well as washing dishes, putting away dished, doing laundry and dusting
* Transportation: Some care givers, including those who provide skilled nursing services, will drive the seniors under their care to doctor’s, dental and rehab appointments; others will take them shopping or to prearranged meetings with friends
* Companionship: In some cases, the senior wants for little but companionship. This may not be satisfied through family; many of the friends may be similarly incapacitated. A caregiver can fill this gap and provide the elder with much needed social interaction
Some of the elderly will require more than basic care services provided by a home care agency. They will require medical attention on a regular basis. An agency that provides skilled nursing services is probably the best way to go to accomplish this. This type of service can provide nursing professionals who are skilled in the handling of those who have a medical issue. They can go beyond reminding the senior to take their medication.
Skilled nursing services supplied by qualified personnel can perform task within the home a regular caregiver is not permitted to perform. Among them are:
* Assisting in administering medication
* To change dressings
* Provide intravenous therapy
* Do post-surgical care
* Help to manage pain and symptoms
* Monitor behavioral issues associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia
* Regular foot care
* Management of chronic diseases and disorders
* Care for those with serious injuries
Skilled nursing services also may be catered to match the specific needs and requirements of both the client and their concerned family and friends.
Skilled Nursing Services
As people continue to increase the numbers of elderly, there are those who will require a variety of care. For the seniors who wish to remain in their homes as long as possible, the answer is some form of home care. For those who suffer from some form of health issue, the best response from health care agencies is the availability of skilled nursing services tailored to meet the demands of the seniors they serve.
If you are in need of Skilled Nursing Services, be sure to talk to the professionals at Capital City Nurses. Since 1976, we have been providing Maryland and DC with quality services in the privacy of their own home. From elder in home care to hospice support, we have been there to ensure our clients get the treatment and respect they deserve.
