Older adults have special needs that they cannot fulfill on their own. Sometimes 4 hands aren’t enough to take care of them. You need an extra helping hand to make things easier for them. Moreover, most of us are so busy with our careers and the fast-paced life that it is impossible to be around our elders all the time.
Thankfully there are people who willingly and happily decide to take care of elders and others in need. However, there have been instances like those that took place with Michigan nursing home abuse victims.
Most people aren’t sure if they should keep their elders in a nursing home or arrange professional in-home care personnel. Let’s quickly analyze the pros and cons of both and come to a conclusion.
Nursing home- Pros and Cons
Nursing homes are unique establishments designed to make it simple and easy for old or injured people to live their lives. The biggest benefit of a nursing home is that at least one nurse will be on hand to assist the patient with both medical and non-medical needs. Additionally, there is no other facility that is more convenient and safe for individuals with impairments and conditions like dementia.
Pros
- The medical needs of your older adults would be addressed by a professional. Nursing homes are usually staffed with medical professionals. But these professionals do both medical and non-medical duties for the patient. These professionals are more comfortable with handling emergency situations, so it is way better to have someone who knows the nitty-gritty and can manage without panicking rather than having family members take care of the adults.
- You may not be able to be available for the adults in your house around the clock. It is understandable since you have other responsibilities to be fulfilled. In a nursing home, you can expect 24-hour care. 24-hour care can be very essential for patients with dementia who often get lost wandering off on their own.
Cons
- Whether the abuse was done mentally or physically, you have all the right to claim compensation from the institution. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
- Adjusting to a new setting can be a bit difficult for the elderly. They will soon start feeling at home there but the transition period can be difficult for them.
- Nursing homes are expensive. For people looking for caretakers on a budget, a nursing home might not be the most ideal option.
- Adults can become too dependent on external help which will make them “old” too early.
In-home Care- Pros and Cons
Although many elders are able to live on their own, they can require help with particular daily duties. For elderly or ill persons who wish to remain in their own homes but cannot really manage everything by themselves in-home care is a suitable alternative. It is also useful for elderly people who live with family members but who are unable to give a sufficient degree of care because of obligations to their jobs and other commitments.
Pros
- There is familiarity at home. They know the place completely and more feel comfortable.
- Despite being cared for by specialists, elderly people in nursing homes might experience extreme loneliness. They can socialize with their loved ones and friends at home while still receiving expert care.
- In-home caregivers’ duties are not restricted to just taking care of the elderly. They help them with all their daily activities and can also do chores like cleaning, shopping, etc.
- In-home care is cheaper than nursing homes.
Cons
- They aren’t qualified to give medical assistance. However, if you need specifically trained caregivers can be appointed.
- Although in-home care is cheaper than the nursing home they can still incur some extra expenses. For example, installing railings and chairlifts for adults with disabilities.
- Some institutions change the nurse frequently. Adjusting to new people constantly can be a bit difficult.
Which is better?
Based on your need and budget you can decide on the ideal option for you. For example, if you need to provide your adults with care from someone with medical knowledge and experience then a nursing home is your best choice. However, if you just need someone to help out the elderly with daily activities and household chores in-home care would be the right choice for you.
Final thoughts
Older adults are more prone to fall sick than other members of their family. A study reveals that older adults infected with the COVID-19 virus are expected to face more severe conditions in the future. In short, the need for caregivers is going to increase. Both nursing homes and in-home cares provide great care but based on your need and budget you can choose the one that is most suitable for you.
My ma had terminal cancer, and we did in-home care.
My grandma had a few problems, but she passed at home listening to Frank Sinatra and sipping a martini at age 88.
My pa has stroke disability, he gets in-home care. He is in a power chair now too.
Just saying, some people don’t want to be in hospice/nursing home environments. Our family takes care in-home so they (ailing person) can be around their pets and family more.