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Why Homecare Is the Best Option for Aging Loved Ones

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Updated: Nov 15, 2024

When it comes to making decisions about the care of aging loved ones, families face a tough choice: Should they stay at home with in-home care or move to an assisted living facility? While assisted living offers support in a shared setting, the idea of leaving behind the comfort and memories of home can feel daunting. More families today are discovering that homecare, with its flexibility and familiarity, can be the best option for loved ones needing assistance.


In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of homecare over assisted living, examining why it’s often the preferred choice for aging loved ones. You’ll learn about the comfort of familiar surroundings, the emotional well-being that homecare fosters, and what statistics and testimonials say about its impact on quality of life.



1. Home Comforts: Why Aging in Place Feels Right for Loved Ones


Imagine being asked to move away from the place you’ve called home for decades. For seniors, relocating to an assisted living facility can feel like losing a part of themselves. Homecare offers a comforting alternative—enabling aging adults to stay in their familiar surroundings, surrounded by personal belongings and memories that bring them joy.


Studies show that aging in place reduces feelings of displacement and loneliness, both common issues among seniors. The National Institute on Aging highlights that seniors living at home tend to have better emotional and mental health, partially due to their connection to familiar surroundings.


“There’s something deeply comforting about staying in the environment you know and love,” shares Susan G., whose mother has thrived with in-home care. “We didn’t want her to lose that sense of home.”


Tip: Consider arranging small changes to the home, like safety rails or non-slip rugs, to make staying at home easier for aging loved ones.



2. The Power of Personalized Care: Customizing Homecare for Each Individual


Unlike assisted living facilities, where care must cater to a group of residents, homecare is uniquely personalized. From flexible schedules to tailored health services, homecare gives seniors the attention they need without feeling like “just another resident.”


A 2022 survey by Home Care Association of America found that 88% of families preferred homecare because it allowed them to tailor the level of support to their loved one’s specific needs. Personalized care can include anything from meal prep and housekeeping to specialized dementia support.


"Homecare gave us the freedom to create a schedule that worked for my mom," says Jenna R., whose mother is living with early-stage Alzheimer’s. "It’s reassuring knowing she’s receiving care that matches her personality and daily rhythms."


Tip: When setting up homecare, work with the provider to match caregivers to your loved one’s preferences and needs.



3. Emotional Connection: How Staying at Home Enhances Well-Being


The move to assisted living can be emotionally challenging, often involving loss of privacy and independence. Homecare allows seniors to keep their autonomy, which can positively impact their emotional and mental health. Many seniors find joy in simple, everyday moments, like taking care of a pet or choosing their own routines.


A study from Aging & Mental Health journal found that seniors who age in place with in-home care report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction. For families, the benefits are equally profound; knowing that their loved one is emotionally fulfilled provides peace of mind.


Tip: Encourage loved ones to maintain hobbies and social activities within the home setting to boost their happiness and mental stimulation.



4. Financial Flexibility: Why Homecare Can Be a More Affordable Option


Many families worry about the cost of long-term care. Assisted living fees can vary widely, but the average monthly cost can easily surpass $4,000. In contrast, homecare offers a more flexible financial option, where families can decide how many hours of care are needed and adjust as necessary.


According to Genworth’s 2023 Cost of Care Survey, the average hourly rate for home health aides is around $26, making it a cost-effective solution for part-time or specialized care. For families, this financial flexibility can be a significant factor in choosing homecare over assisted living.


Tip: Plan a care budget and start with a few hours of in-home support. As needs grow, you can increase the time and services provided.



5. Health Benefits: How Homecare Supports Physical and Cognitive Well-Being


Staying at home is not only beneficial for mental health but also has notable advantages for physical well-being. Assisted living facilities often have limited resources for individual exercise and outdoor time, but homecare can provide tailored support to keep seniors physically active, whether it’s helping them with daily walks or guided stretches.


Homecare also offers cognitive stimulation through one-on-one interactions, which has been shown to slow cognitive decline in seniors with memory issues. Many homecare agencies train caregivers in activities that promote brain health, such as memory games or crafts.


“Homecare allowed my dad to keep his garden, which he loves,” says Emily S., daughter of a homecare client. “That kind of physical activity keeps him sharp and engaged.”


Tip: Work with your homecare provider to incorporate light exercise or enjoyable activities that support cognitive health.



6. Greater Satisfaction: What Testimonials and Statistics Reveal About Homecare


The numbers are clear—seniors and their families report higher satisfaction with homecare compared to assisted living. A 2023 survey from AARP found that nearly 90% of adults over 65 wanted to remain in their own homes as they aged, and families were three times more likely to be satisfied with homecare over assisted living.


Family testimonials often echo this sentiment. "Homecare has been a blessing," says Tom L., whose father is thriving with home support. "Dad’s happier, healthier, and we feel confident he’s getting the best care possible.”


Such testimonials reveal the impact that staying at home can have, not only on seniors but on their entire families. Homecare lets loved ones age gracefully, retaining their independence, dignity, and happiness.


Tip: Look up reviews and ask for testimonials when researching homecare providers. Positive feedback from others can guide you toward the right choice.



Conclusion: Homecare—The Choice That Offers Familiarity, Flexibility, and Fulfillment


Choosing between homecare and assisted living is a deeply personal decision, but for many families, the benefits of homecare are undeniable. Homecare brings comfort, personalization, emotional well-being, and financial flexibility—qualities that help seniors feel truly at home in every sense.


Keeping loved ones in their cherished surroundings, surrounded by familiar faces and a flexible routine, offers them the best chance at a satisfying and enriched life. If you’re seeking a care option that provides both quality and comfort, homecare may be the solution your family needs.



See how our personalized homecare plans can work for your family—reach out now!

Explore how we can create a plan tailored to your loved one’s needs, so they can enjoy their golden years in the place they know best: home.

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