senior woman washing dishes

We know that one of the things you value most as you get older is your independence. It is not just your ability to live in your own home and in the community you know and love, but to also age in the presence of family and watch the children and grandchildren you’ve helped to raise and raise their own. It can feel overwhelming when you experience signs of aging that might otherwise threaten your ability to live alone or be of concern to your loved ones. 

There are, however, many options when it comes to aging in place that help you put off conversations around a nursing home. These options provide a new kind of independent living—one that is done in the presence of in-home senior care providers who give you the support you need to age at home. 

The following are six ways that in-home care providers can help you  “age in place” and experience a process of growing older that centers on your independence and desire to age with dignity. 

1. Assistance with Basic Needs Such as Bathing, Grooming, and Dressing

Depending on your unique needs, you may find yourself benefitting from assistance with your daily personal care. This can include everything from grooming, bathing, and dressing, to cleaning and cooking. While you may be capable of completing all of your chores on your own, doing so can actually rob you of the energy you would otherwise use for playing with your grandkids. 

Many in-home care plans are tailored to the needs of the client, therefore if you desire support in the kitchen or with the laundry and not in the bathroom, this can be arranged. 

Ultimately, the goal of in-home care services is to keep you living as independently and as safe as possible and allow you the time and energy to focus your attention on the things that matter most at this stage of life.  

2. Meal Preparation and Nutrition Guidance

Cooking may be your passion and something you wish to continue doing, especially for family and friends,  however, the preparation that goes into your fabulous meals may be too much for you at this stage in your life. Therefore, it may be time to work with an in-home senior care team who could assist with grocery shopping, help with preparing your meals, and even offer nutritional counseling so that the meals you make are providing the nutrition and sustenance you need to keep thriving. 

Should you be at a place in your life where meal planning and preparation are difficult, there are caregivers who are available to do the cooking, so you can enjoy doing what brings you the most joy. Many in-home care teams provide meals that are both nutritious and delicious, some of which can be prepared for you in-home. 

3. Medication Reminders  

Remembering to take your medications can feel overwhelming for both you and your loved ones, especially when there are multiple medications to be taken. The risks of making mistakes can be life-threatening and therefore there is often little to no room for error. If you are struggling with issues related to memory, the risks of forgetting to take your medications are much higher and the consequences that much more serious. 

If you or your loved ones desire support when it comes to administering medications, there are healthcare experts who are more than willing to take the lead. 

4. Transportation to Appointments and Errands

Driving yourself to and from appointments and other errands can be one of the toughest activities to give up. Especially, when you’re not emotionally ready to do so. In order to live a healthy, safe, and more independent life, however, losing the ability to drive is something that happens to most of us. The good news is that this does not mean you need to rely on family and friends for rides. There are others who could help, and surprising benefits are included. 

Whether you have a doctor’s appointment that’s outside of your home, or you have errands you would like to run, a team of care professionals is often available to help you get there. The best part is you don’t have to go alone. You get companionship and transportation in one, a combination that can help you stay active, engaged, and independent for longer. 

5. Companionship and Socialization

Are you one of the more than 25 percent of seniors aged 65 and older who live alone? This can negatively impact your overall health by not giving you the socialization we often require as social beings. Companionship, especially for seniors, can improve cognition, combat depression and other mood disorders, and help you remain mentally and emotionally stimulated. 

Especially in cases where your family and friends may live out of town or are distracted living their own aging journeys, having someone you could count on day in and day out can make all the difference in your ability to age at home. 

Looking for assistance from a trusted source? Golden care is one of the most trusted care services in San Diego. We provide caregivers who are experienced and trained in providing care to seniors. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help to support you and your loved one.