When it comes to the care of our loved ones, we want nothing but the best. The decision whether to choose a nursing home or opt for a home attendant is a crucial one, as the result can dictate your loved ones comfort and care for the upcoming years. Although nursing homes typically serve as the traditional route when debating on long term care, there is nothing comparable to the comfort your loved one will receive in their home as well as the one on one care that is tailored to their needs. In this article, we will analyze the many reasons why home attendants provide a transformative experience which prioritizes individual’s needs in the comfort of their own home.

Personalized Care and Individual Attention

Home attendants offer a level of personalized care that sets them apart from nursing homes. When individuals receive care at home, they benefit from one on one care with a caregiver that can focus exclusively on their needs. Unlike a nursing home where the staff to patient ratio is higher, home attendants have the opportunity to build strong connections to their patients and allow them to understand their unique routines and preferences of treatment. Home attendants can also offer constant assistance with tasks including bathing, dressing and meal preparations. The individualized attention given by home attendants allows for meaningful relationships, companionship and emotional support which establishes trust between the patient and caregiver while providing a sense of comfort to the patient as well.

Nursing Homes Are Extremely Expensive

In New York State, the average cost of a private room in a nursing home totals to $158,797 annually (American Council on Aging) in comparison to the average annual home attendant cost of $52,620 (SeniorCare). Nursing homes provide elderly care within a facility, which includes expenses related to maintaining and operating a residential establishment. With the expenses of utilities, staffing, and maintenance, the cost increases drastically. Nursing homes are also equipped to handle emergency medical situations which require round-the-clock medical personnel. Additionally, the cost of the living space such as rooms and bathrooms as well as meal plans, is included in the overall price. Home attendants on the other hand, provide medical care in the patients residence, therefore eliminating the additional facility expenses. Home attendants can be more flexible in terms of scheduling allowing for cost effective options based on an individual’s needs. 

Familiar Surroundings

Home attendants offer a unique advantage by allowing patients to age in the comfort of their own home. This becomes particularly important for patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These two conditions can cause memory loss and disorientation which makes it incredibly difficult for those individuals to adapt to new environments. Being in a familiar setting such as their home helps minimize the stress and anxiety of changing locations. Remaining in a recognizable space also helps to maintain daily routines which can be comforting for patients with memory loss. Allowing patients to age in their own home can enhance their quality of life and promotes familiarity during challenging times.

Increased flexibility and Family Involvement

Home attendants allow for much more family involvement and flexibility when it comes to treatment plans. By receiving care at home, families have more control over schedules and care provided. Home attendants are able accommodate specific preferences and routines and adapt to a patient's needs. Home attendants encourage family involvement as well by allowing families to actively participate in decision making and will also keep them informed about their loved one’s condition. 

Comfort to the family

Home attendants can provide the family of a patient a higher level of comfort in comparison to nursing homes. Families can often take comfort in knowing that their loved one is in the hands of a trusted individual of their choosing. Knowing that they are receiving individual attention in the comfort of their own home can put their minds at ease. Additionally, with patients who are immunocompromised, it can be comforting knowing they are only exposed to one individual instead of living with a significant number of people.

Home attendants offer countless advantages that make them superior to nursing homes. The personalized care, individual attention, and comfort they provide to patients contribute to a higher quality of life and overall well-being to seniors. While seeking assistance with elder care needs, Attorney Inna Fershteyn can be a valuable resource to assist you in making the best choices suited for your family’s needs. With her expertise and knowledge in elder law and estate planning, Attorney Inna Fershteyn can guide your family through the legalities of elder care, ensuring that your loved ones receive the best possible treatment. Her dedication to serving the needs of seniors makes her an invaluable asset in navigating the challenges of eldercare. Ensure your loved ones are comfortable and provided for by calling the Trust and Estate Planning Office at (718) 333–2395.