6 Ways in Which Elderly Care Has Changed

Throughout the world, medical advances have helped prolong life expectancy and improve the quality of life of seniors. However, with an ageing population come different challenges in terms of public health policy.

If you’re looking for experienced residential caregivers for your elderly relatives in Toluca Lake and surrounding communities, you can rely on companies specialized in home care. However, finding in-home help wasn’t always that easy. Read on to learn how the industry has changed over the last couple of decades.

How senior home care has changed

Speaking about technological changes and advancement, the system of in-home medical and non-medical assistance has made great strides forward. Only two decades ago, the caregiver role was more about the maintenance, now it’s more complex. Let’s take a look how the industry of in-home assistance has changed: 

Rising demand

The elderly represent a rapidly growing demographic in the United States. According to Census projections, the age group above 65 is expected to account for 20% of the population by 2030. The aging process is not uniform among all Americans; some groups are more likely than others to experience declining health and disability as they age. The following 

• People who suffer from dementia
• Elderly people that struggle with depression
• Seniors whose families can’t keep up with their daily care

Delayed admission to nursing facilities

Nursing home mortality rates have led to the increase in in-house assistance that is paid through Medicaid. Such services might prolong the time before people need to turn to assisted living facilities. Also, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic families are hesitant to send their elderly relatives to hospitals or nursery homes. 

The pandemic has given rise to many new issues which need to be addressed about how healthcare and in-home assistance is provided for this segment of society. In addition, it has caused the known issues of social isolation and loneliness to become more severe. Here, in-home assistance can play yet another significant role. 

Insurance changes

Another factor that has a significant impact are changes in insurance policies. As of recent, non-skilled home care has been approved for Medicaid Advantage recipients under the following criteria: 

• As a compensation for physical impairments,
• To reduce the effects of injuries or chronic conditions
• As a means to decrease the chances of avoidable emergencies

Telemedicine

Studies have shown that many patients favor telehealth over the usual doctor checkups and are willing to use it for non-urgent purposes. This technological advance has proven to be the right means to improve in-home patient care. 

Seniors living alone or with limited support systems at home can benefit from it, this allows them more time to live independently. It reduces numerous factors, such as falls, dehydration, malnutrition, skipping prescribed medicine etc. 

Increased use of technology

Providers of non-medical assistance are increasingly using technology to improve their communication with clients and between staff. Using tablets and other smart devices gives the opportunity to update and monitor the status of the patient in real time. This is especially important, as it keeps the family members informed and reduces stress. Other improvements are also taking place: 

• Increased use of sophisticated software in the recruitment process.
• A more comprehensive use of scheduling software that enhances communication across the board.
• CRM technology, that allows users to better integrate various client information and implement useful changes. 

Retention of staff

As the demand for domestic services has greatly increased, retention of staff in medical and non-medical settings becomes a major priority in the care industry. People are encouraged to join the industry, as there are many reasons to become a professional caregiver. You would need to receive some guidance on how to take care of the elderly first, but you can definitely find opportunities for your career. 

Where in Toluca Lake can I find dependable home care?

Elderly residents of Toluca Lake don’t have to look far, as A Better Way in Home Care is just around the corner to make their life easier. We serve many thriving communities along the San Fernandino Valley and beyond.

We can match you with caregivers who offer a variety of services. Whether you need live-in care, or part-time help, you can count on us. Our caregivers can help with many daily tasks, including personal hygiene, walking, doing simple household chores, taking care of plants and pets, and driving the client to see the doctor.  Before we recommend the caregiver that will suit you best, we conduct meticulous background screening.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any doubts and questions about our services. We are awaiting your call!