Jennifer Roberts

Eldercare professionals often talk about the quality of care but rarely talk about the quality of life for the seniors. There are, however, obvious similarities between these two concepts. Good quality care services often translate into a good quality of life for seniors, but a more in-depth approach must be taken into consideration. The quality of life depends greatly on how healthy and how happy the senior is. Similarly, good quality of life improves the quality of care and the health of the elderly patient. These concepts go hand in hand.

Eldercare services in Broward County consistently try to create the best environment for their elderly patients and know how important their quality of life is. Care professionals focus on making their lives easier and comfortable, while also providing the necessary services and constant care. But how can an elder's quality of life be improved? What can elderly home care services in Broward County do for a senior in order to get the best services and live a comfortable life? Let's take a look:

A focus on outdoor activities

Everyone loves the outdoors. Spending time in nature, whether it's a park, a forest or a beach, promotes exercise and enables an active lifestyle. What's more, spending time in nature is calming, relaxing and can be beneficial for all seniors, no matter their health condition. Good elder care services in Broward County provide access to gardens, parks or other outdoor areas for their elderly patients. Also, trips to local parks or wildlife areas are provided on a regular basis.

A focus on safety

Safety is critically important for elderly patients, particularly for those who have problems living independently. They may have problems navigating their homes, may have problems climbing stairs or using appliances. Proper labeling is provided in order to help them create a safer environment. Eldercare services providers also work with safety companies that can perform a safety assessment and determine whether there are any risks in their homes. This helps reduce anxiety and depression.

Excellent in-home care services

There are many types of in-home care services available, and many companies who focus on this type of service. There are also many independent in-home caregivers. Keep in mind that a caregiver is a person that you will spend a lot of time with. You'll have to know this person, preferably before signing the deal. Try to meet and interview several caregivers before hiring your favorite one. Also, talk to multiple companies and be open about your needs. State your preferences, your schedule and the type of service you need. This will help you get the best caregiver, suited for your needs and personality. Communicate with the caregiver regularly and be open about your needs, what needs improving and what makes you happy.

Working with a geriatric care manager

Eldercare services in Broward County work with thousands of seniors, and hundreds of home care professionals every year. The workload is large and it is expected to grow during the next decade, as the baby-boomers of the 1950s and 1960s retire. Working with a geriatric care manager will help improve services, especially for seniors who have special needs. For instance, a geriatric care manager can manage the team of caregivers, interact with the medical professionals, create complex care plans for certain patients and adapt schedules to fit the growing workload. This means that the services will be better, the seniors and their families happier and the caregivers will be better managed.

Family visits coordination

A good caregiver will try to schedule family visits and help elderly patients spend time with their loved ones. This involves preparing meals, doing light housekeeping and helping them with bathing and dressing. Regular communication and interaction with family and friends are critically important for seniors, and good caregivers know how to help seniors socialize better.

The financial and legal aspects

Most seniors are stressed about their financial situation. Getting help with this particularly sensitive topic is very important for them and can make their life more comfortable and relaxed. The best home care services in Broward County can help seniors with this. Most companies can put seniors in contact with both financial planners and specialized attorneys, which can help them create wills or living trusts. Also, help with paying the bills is provided. These types of services reduce stress and give seniors the much-needed peace of mind. Their financial issues are in good hands and everything is taken care of.

The healthcare issues

This is probably the most important aspect and all home care services in Broward County focus on. The seniors' healthcare and medical well-being are of utmost importance and all services are designed to guarantee their well-being at all times. Caregivers are instructed to contact the emergency department whenever something bad happens. What's more, they have basic medical training and can provide simple medical assistance. In complex cases, the care is provided by a nurse, who has medical experience and can treat basic symptoms. Also, the care is always according to the POLST (Physician's Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment). What's more, the services include drug administration, regular medical surveillance and stress management.

Create a relaxing, fun experience

Home care services are about living in your own home, surrounded by your friends, family, and neighbors. This means a lot for many seniors, even if they can no longer take care of themselves. It helps reduce stress and gives them peace of mind. Having a home caregiver around is immensely helpful and can make them live comfortably for years to come. Ideally, the caregiver should focus on creating a welcoming experience and a comfortable environment for the senior. Small details, like buying flowers, playing music, watching a movie, preparing a special meal or provide companionship means a lot for many elderly patients. This is what true care is all about. And good caregivers know it.