Despite the common belief that retirement is spent with loved ones or in a tropical destination, the reality is that the majority of Americans choose to spend their golden years in their own homes. A study conducted by AARP revealed that 77% of retirees have plans to age in place. While this allows older individuals to stay in a familiar and beloved environment, they may still require professional help, especially considering that 80% of seniors have a chronic medical condition.

Home-based care is not a universal solution for everyone. When determining what type of support to pursue, it is important to consider some fundamental characteristics and distinctions with your parents.

Comparison: Home Healthcare vs. Home Care

Before making a decision, it is important to determine whether your parent needs home healthcare or home care. However, what distinguishes the two?

Home healthcare is a type of assistance that provides limited medical support. Services may include nursing care, health aides, and therapy such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy. In order to qualify for home healthcare, an elderly individual must have a formal referral from their doctor. This may be necessary if they have difficulty leaving their home or are managing a chronic illness such as diabetes. Generally, home healthcare is provided for a period of 60 days; however, this time frame can be adjusted based on the recommendations of the overseeing physician. The most frequently encountered professionals in home healthcare are therapists and nurses with various specialties.

Home care, which is a type of assistance that does not involve medical procedures, is still considered crucial in many situations. According to research conducted by Johns Hopkins, a significant number of senior citizens, about 25 million in the United States, rely on home care as they grow older. Unlike medical care, home care does not necessarily need a doctor’s recommendation for eligibility. Additionally, the duration and conditions of home care can be negotiated between the patient and the home care provider.

What If My Parent Refuse Assistance?

If your parents have concerns about receiving professional home care, it’s essential to be empathetic. For many elderly individuals, bringing in a nurse or caregiver can feel like acknowledging their fragility and inability to manage on their own. Therefore, it’s crucial to approach this situation in a positive manner. Clarify to them that having a care specialist does not mean they are incapable of self-care but rather shows their dedication to prioritizing their well-being by seeking professional assistance.