6 ways you can help older adults in their home
Home health care or hospice careers can be rewarding for you as the caregiver, but also for the clients and patients you serve. Read the article below to understand a few of the ways in which you could change the lives of those you care for each day.
1. Offering a greater sense of independence
Giving up independence can be one of life’s hardest struggles. It can be difficult to experience a decline in health and have to accept help from others. As a caregiver, you can help the individual continue doing everyday tasks, like dressing, bathing, preparing meals, and even walking – at home. You can help give them back a sense of independence.
2. Providing safety, comfort, and convenience
Research shows that older adults recover faster, with fewer complications, at home compared to a hospital setting. Assistance with medication management can prevent harmful drug interactions. Your guidance can help ensure they have a safe home environment. This includes removing fall hazards and finding ways to successfully set up their home to provide optimal safety, comfort, and convenience.
3. Offering relief for the family
Family members have the best of intentions when providing care for their loved ones. Unfortunately, they might end up on the path to burnout. Some individuals experience this because they might not be trained to provide the necessary care, they are juggling several tasks, or emotions might cloud judgment.
As a professional caregiver, you will not only provide respite for loved ones, but you can also share helpful resources, provide education, and give peace of mind.
4. Helping to avoid hospital visits
By regularly monitoring an individual’s condition, you can help keep a pulse on their health, catch problems early on, and provide care and guidance. Clients and patients have access to the care team 24/7, giving them round-the-clock support. Easy access to care can help prevent conditions from worsening and help to avoid hospital visits.
5. Providing personalized care
Home health care and hospice care plans are tailored to an individual’s specific needs. As a caregiver, you can support those needs and play a critical role in the success of the care plan. With best practices and safety standards in place, you can help individuals achieve their goals.
6. Providing companionship
The time you spend with your clients and patients in their homes is so valuable to them. It’s time for them to have great conversations, share stories, and be around others. Your presence can help free them from feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Begin your career search with Ethos Home Health Care and Hospice
If you are ready to explore a career in aging services, we invite you to begin by exploring our openings. Find opportunities as a home health aide, nurse, therapist, and beyond. Find your career match at Ethos.
“I get to take care of clients in their home where most of them thrive the best! To know I get to do something I love every single day is such a blessing! I’ve always believed that people cross your path for a reason and I’m truly doing what God has intended for me to do! Thank you, Ethos, for truly being one of the best places I have ever worked!” – Tabby Flowers, Ethos Home Health Aide
Meet the author
Scott Holm is the Director of Ethos Home Health Care and Hospice. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education and Exercise Science, as well as a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of North Dakota.
Scott began his professional career at Altru Health System in Grand Forks where he spent 11 years building on his knowledge. He held multiple positions such as Inpatient Physical Therapist, Supervisor of Outpatient Therapy, Lean Facilitator, and Practice Manager of Surgical Specialty Clinics. Scott joined the Ethos Home Health Care and Hospice team in October of 2022 as the Regional Clinical Manager in Grand Forks and was promoted to Director in June of 2023. Scott demonstrates excellent leadership, care, and compassion and he is passionate about serving North Dakota and Minnesota communities.
In addition to his professional career, Scott is married to his wife, Grace, and together they have 4 children. He enjoys golfing, running, and spending time at the lake with his family.