ECO Supportive Living provides a range of services to seniors who don’t want to give up their independence but may need a little help with the activities of daily living.
According to AARP statistics, 75% of adults 50 and older want to stay in their own homes as they age. However, declining health in later years can often present challenges to their safety and well-being. That’s where home care comes in.
“We offer personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders and transportation assistance,” said Megan Preston, ECO Supportive Living manager. “Loneliness is often a big factor for older adults, so just being able to go into their homes and provide some companionship is huge.”
Indications that it may be time
Getting your loved one to admit they may need in-home help is often a difficult hurdle. Families and caregivers typically start to notice them struggling to keep track of medications, isolating themselves from others and losing interest in housekeeping or personal hygiene.
“Your loved one also might start having mobility issues or falling more frequently,” Preston added. “Getting to the point of realizing they need help usually happens through a series of small changes over time, not one big event.”
Bringing up the subject in a sensitive way can be tricky.
“You can start out by saying, ‘I’m worried about you, and I just want to make sure that you’re safe,’” Preston said. “Their first thoughts may go straight to assisted living or a nursing home, and that can be scary. You can present the option of home care from the perspective that it actually allows them to stay in their own home longer.”
Many people harbor a common misconception that in-home care is only for sick people. Preston says that’s not the case.
“It’s very flexible, depending on what they need,” she said. “We perform a free initial assessment where we talk about their routines and preferences. Then we do a safety evaluation and create a personalized care plan. It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all approach.”
Help for the whole family
In addition to the positives that home care services offer for recipients, their families benefit as well.
“Family members are often the caregivers for these individuals, and they often don’t realize just how overwhelming it can be until they’re in it, especially if they’re also working and raising their own kids at the same time,” Preston said. “Home care gives them a break and the peace of mind in knowing that their loved one is being cared for with dignity.”
Older adults and family members can talk to their primary doctor or healthcare provider for home care referrals.
“The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging can help as well, and they can always reach out to ECO for guidance at any time,” Preston added.
ECO Supportive Living accepts Medicaid waivers (and is willing to help families with the application process) along with private-pay options and VA benefits. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 402.830.9090 or go to ecosupportiveliving.com.
