Advantages of 24-Hour Care
Blog

Advantages of 24-Hour Care

May 20, 2024
BrightStar Care - corporate office
For many families, the decision of how best to care for aging loved ones is difficult and emotionally challenging. As we age, it becomes harder to remain independent, and round-the-clock care may become necessary later in life. Fortunately, many providers offer 24-hour home care services with an emphasis on patient comfort, safety and dignity. These services take place in a familiar, relaxing environment. Learn more about 24-hour home care, its advantages and how BrightStar Care of Santa Barbara County can make a difference in your life.

What Is 24-Hour Care? 

Family caregivers do an excellent job of caring for their loved ones; but many are not professionally trained and may not know what kind of support their loved one needs. Here's where 24-hour home care comes in. This multi-faceted service offers constant assistance for those who cannot live on their own. Providers may include a range of services in-home care packages, including the following:
 
  • Meal preparation and clean-up
  • Assistance with dressing and personal hygiene
  • Mobility help
  • Medication reminders
  • Transportation
  • Companion care
  • Light housekeeping

When Is 24-Hour Care Necessary? 

All-day home care provides extra support for those who can no longer complete daily activities by themselves. It is rather difficult to give a general answer about when home care will be required, as every individual is different. However, here are some signs that 24-hour in-home support is necessary:
 
  • Your loved one has been diagnosed with a physically degenerative illness (such as Parkinson’s) or a cognitive disease (like Alzheimer's or dementia)
  • Your loved one has specialized needs that a family caregiver can't meet
  • Family caregivers are not available throughout the day and night
  • Family caregivers need a break to recharge and to focus on their own lives

Knowing Your Loved Ones are Being Cared For 

The main benefit of 24-hour home care is round-the-clock healthcare services. Someone will always be around to help your loved one with daily activities, even through the night. During this time, the patient can still engage in the activities they have always enjoyed, such as visiting friends or attending community events.

Enjoy Greater Peace of Mind

Home care may be geared toward the individual receiving support, but it also provides respite care for the families. You will have peace of mind knowing someone is always available to help your loved one. Instead of worrying about the unexpected, you can feel secure in the knowledge that if emergencies happen, they are handled swiftly by trained professionals.

Continue Care in the Comfort of Home 

24-hour home care services enable individuals to stay in their homes while receiving the care they need. Moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility is a challenging transition, and most seniors would prefer to remain in their familiar homes where they feel happy and comfortable. With home care, your loved one will receive top-notch care from experienced professionals while staying in familiar surroundings.

Allowing for Independence and Socialization

Independence is a key 24-hour home care benefit. No one likes being unable to do what they love, and home care services allow older folks to continue to live by themselves. They can maintain control over their daily routine and keep up with their favorite activities with the help of a home care professional. Seniors who take advantage of home care can choose to remain close to friends and family, minimizing the sense of isolation that often comes with aging.

The Cost of 24-Hour Care Services

Many people worry that 24-hour home health care services are too expensive for their loved ones. However, the cost of 24-hour in-home care varies greatly, and it is possible to find a service that fits within your budget. Many people wonder if Medicaid will pay for 24-hour home care. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward, and coverage can vary by state. Some states allow for this type of care, but others prioritize care in skilled nursing facilities. In general, Medicaid tends to pay for some form of in-home care. Nevertheless, it’s essential to check your policy to learn more about the extent of coverage.

Why Choose BrightStar for 24-Hour Care

As you explore home care options for your loved one, consider BrightStar Care of Santa Barbara County. Our team is knowledgeable in this approach to senior care, and we can help you take an important step toward your loved one’s well-being. Each caregiver is carefully screened, and trained to guarantee optimal services and boost seniors’ quality of life. Our clients rest easy knowing our team is available 24/7 should any issues arise. 

Sources:
  1. National Library of Medicine
  2. Medicaid Planning Assistance
  3. Forbes Health