While none of us want to think about ourselves or a loved one experiencing a health issue that requires constant care, it’s an unfortunate reality that could happen to anyone. However, it’s important to understand the difference between chronic conditions, conditions that require occasional monitoring, and medical issues that necessitate 24-hour care. There are also more resources than ever available to make life easier for those who need live-in help at home, which you should take the time to look into if you or someone you care about requires round-the-clock medical care. Read on to learn more about some situations that require 24-hour care.
What situations require 24-hour care?
The need for 24-hour care can be temporary or permanent, depending on the condition that the patient is dealing with. Recovery from an accident where significant trauma was sustained may require home care for a period of time, but patients in the advanced stages of illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease typically require ongoing assistance on a more permanent basis. Any neurodegenerative disease or disorder that causes someone to be unable to manage essential daily tasks like feeding themselves or showering on their own is typically best served by having a medical provider for 24/7 in-home care.
There are a number of reasons to consider 24-hour care, especially for patients with chronic or incurable conditions. One of the most important benefits is that it provides peace of mind to both the patient and their family. Many dementia patients often lose their sense of time and place, which can be disorienting and frightening. A home care provider is professionally trained to calm and reassure patients like this.
Having a medical practitioner providing 24-hour care can also help reduce the incidence of skin infections and urinary tract infections. Since people who require home care often struggle with mobility, a care provider can also help minimize their risk of falling at home. A care provider can also provide companionship and conversation, which is more essential than you may think. There is even evidence to suggest that socialization can help prevent cognitive decline.
What services can help someone who needs care at home?
Finding the right home care agency can be challenging, especially if you aren’t sure where to start. It’s important to look for a business like this home care agency in Fairless Hill, PA, that is committed to avoiding the use of subcontractors. This way, you can feel secure in the knowledge that all members of their staff have been screened and are well qualified to provide professional care for all of their individual patients. When you plan to allow someone into your home, it’s essential that you feel comfortable with them.
Many people with a variety of medical conditions require regular monitoring and blood tests. It can be impossible for patients who require home care to schedule a visit to a lab on a regular basis to see a phlebotomist for a blood draw. Fortunately, there are mobile phlebotomy services that healthcare providers are beginning to make use of. Ask your doctor’s office if they are able to help you take advantage of mobile phlebotomy for your routine blood tests. A mobile phlebotomy service can even provide COVID-19 testing from the comfort of your own home.
Making the decision to invest in-home care for yourself or a loved one can be difficult, but there are many conditions that require constant access to a qualified medical professional in order for patients to protect their health. Some home care needs are temporary, particularly in the aftermath of trauma or an accident, but people with conditions like dementia may need 24-hour care on an ongoing basis. Fortunately, there are resources available to support those who require in-home care and assist them in accessing the services that they need. The investment is more than worth it to protect the comfort and quality of life of patients with severe or debilitating medical conditions.
