One of the most fascinating things about human beings is that each and every one is completely unique, and that doesn’t change simply because of age. As we age, we remain the unique and intricate people that we have been our whole lives. Assuming that all seniors will act the same and have a need for the same things is a cookie cutter approach that simply will not work for seniors or those who take care of them. Providing care to older individuals requires a creative and thoughtful approach that allows the caregiver to get to know the senior and their particular needs. This information can help determine the best plan of care to keep the person healthy and safe at home. This is where a senior care assessment comes in.
Just as there are a number of different types of people with a variety of needs, there are also numerous different kinds of in-home senior care services and providers. Understanding what types of services, or combinations of services, are ideal for an older family member can help the person live a happier, healthier life at home. Working with a trusted elder care provider like Dakota Home Care is also incredibly important.
When it’s time to obtain home care services for a loved one, a senior care assessment for daily function, depression, and mental status is a critical step that a high quality home care service company will provide to identify which sorts of services are suggested for an older adult.
What’s the Purpose of a Senior Care Assessment?
A senior care assessment is intended to:
- Outline all of the concerns and challenges that an older adult is experiencing
- Develop a care plan to recommend solutions for recognized issues
- Evaluate an older person’s access to supports that can help them safely continue to live at home
- Determine care needs and the frequency of care that should be provided
After completion, a geriatric care assessment can lead to:
- Better health outcomes
- Postponing the onset of impairment
- Understanding changes in health before they develop
- Enhanced quality of life
- Saving on health care costs
- Identifying rehabilitation needs
- Planning services to enhance safety
- Identifying early-stage disease
- Determining a senior’s ability to care for himself or herself
- Identifying and correcting fall hazards
During a senior care assessment, a home care provider should also take plenty of time to get to know the person for whom care will be provided – their life background, likes and dislikes, and personality. Time should also be dedicated to getting to know the person’s family better. Comprehending family dynamics, personal history, interests and hobbies, and more can all help home care providers customize the care they provide for the unique people they serve.
At Dakota Home Care, we’re devoted to supporting the freedom and dignity of each person we serve. When health conditions and life stages result in the need for a little help or even around-the-clock care, we know the changes that follow can be complex, emotional and daunting. As the leading provider of home care and palliative care in Mandan, Fargo, and in Bismarck, ND we can help you determine a loved one’s care needs and identify the best level of in-home care services to ensure the person maintains independence at home.
Contact us today at (877) 691-0015 to find out more or to schedule your free in-home assessment.