Nursing homes provide quality care to many elderly and disabled individuals, but research proves the majority of people prefer home care. When seniors are allowed to remain in their own homes, it often affords them an increased sense of dignity and a better quality of life. Despite the many advantages of in-home care, many aging Americans are still being placed in nursing homes unnecessarily. How can families help their loved ones who are capable of living independently avoid nursing homes?
Homecare systems like ClearCare Online are helping more seniors stay living comfortably at home. Unlike nursing homes, which often provide little to no transparency when it comes to patient care, ClearCare Online’s homecare software used by a reputable homecare agency gives families the opportunity to check in on their loved ones daily activities from any computer or mobile device.
Homecare Systems vs. Nursing Homes
While nursing homes are more expensive than in-home care, they oft provide fewer options to patients and their families. Nursing home facilities are notoriously understaffed, and lack proper supervision. Without the advantage of homecare systems or homecare software such as ClearCare Online, nursing home administrators cannot offer real-time visibility to patient point-of-care like home care agencies can.
Although there is no concrete data available, formal complaints of unlawful evictions from nursing homes have almost tripled in the last five years. An unnecessary eviction creates a significant disruption in a senior’s life. Even the threat of a transfer can cause enormous stress and anxiety. “Transfer trauma” may even cause irreparable psychological harm. Medical studies indicate that the rate of death is 5 to 9 times higher for transferred residents compared to those who are allowed to remain in familiar surroundings.
As we mentioned, homecare systems and homecare software such as ClearCare Online have helped many seniors live in the comfort of their own homes. Experienced caregivers can be appropriately matched to each client using a sophisticated scheduling system, based on a select set of criteria. Imagine how comforting it would be knowing that your parent’s every need is being met by a qualified caregiver.
Sustaining a regular schedule is very important in order for elderly ones to feel a sense of security. ClearCare Online’s homecare software is the industry’s leading tool for regulating caregiver schedules and punctuality. Homecare systems provide daily reminders for activities such as:
- Meal times
- Medication schedules and dosages
- Exercise or physical therapy
- Doctor appointments
- Sleep habits
- Social engagements
ClearCare Online’s homecare software also instructs caregivers which daily tasks the senior prefers to handle on their own, as set by homecare administrators. This affords the elder dignity and prevents awkward situations that can be common in full-time care facilities.
With nursing home care costs on the rise, it’s no wonder why more families are choosing in-home care. There are now more reputable home care agencies to choose from than ever before, and an increasing number are offering robust homecare systems like ClearCare Online.
