Senior Home Care Agency In New York City

Accurate medication management is critical to ensuring the health and well-being of people of all ages. However, as someone ages, medication can be used to treat chronic and often very serious medical conditions. The effects of not taking medication for conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, Heart Disease, COPD, etc., can significantly decrease one’s quality of life and ability to remain independent.

As conditions change, medications might need to be adjusted, which can become confusing and overwhelming. Providers are often rushed or not in communication with one another. Homecare and care management allows for an older adult to have a trusted person there with them to ensure new medications are picked up, taken, and potential reactions noted.

Helpful tips for family members managing a loved one’s medications: 

1. Explain the reason for taking the medication. Allow them to understand the importance of each medication.
2. Organize medication boxes (we recommend the 7-day, four additional slots to apply multiple doses). Our RNs can assist with medication pre-pours as needed or on an ongoing basis to ensure accuracy. 
3. Keep a list of noted side effects to ensure providers are made aware. 
4. Keep an accurate list of medications readily available for emergency responders and for older adults to take with them to appointments.

1. Where have you worked before?
2. What were your duties?
3. What type of patient medical limitations have you worked with in the past?
4.  What is your experience cooking for other people (including dietary restrictions)?
   
5. Is there anything in the job description that you are uncomfortable doing?
6.  Have you had to deal with a patient emergency in the past?
   
7. Can you keep track of and administer medications?
8. Can you transfer someone from a wheelchair into a car or a bed?
9. How do you feel about caring for a disabled person? Or a person with memory problems?
10. Can I contact at least two work-related and one personal reference?

As we age, it is common to spend more time alone. This can result in our reliance on more tasks, leading to isolation. Our self-sufficient parents may struggle with relying on family, nurses, or caregivers, but it also makes them feel like a burden on those they love.

This combination can result in isolation, which has various dangers associated with it:

• Risk of injury: A trip or fall is always a risk, and spending more time alone and refusing help increases the likelihood.
  
• Risk of depression: Many senior citizens are at risk of suffering from depression, especially if they isolate themselves.

Preventative steps can be taken:

• Provide transportation: Senior citizens need a way to go to the store, visit a friend, or simply walk outside. Any type of assistance can make a huge difference.
• Visit often: Family is extremely important. Visiting a loved one, especially a senior citizen who lives in a care facility, reminds them of those who care, even if it is a short visit. Feeling love and appreciation can make a world of difference, so never underestimate a quick visit to a loved one.
• Encourage visits to worship: For many seniors, religion has been an integral part of life. Encourage time or assist in planning religious excursions.

Home care is flexible and can be adjusted as needs change. The care plan should be regularly reviewed and updated. If the level of care required increases significantly, other options like assisted living may need to be considered.

Elder home care services enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in their homes, promoting independence, reducing the risk of accidents, and providing social interaction. Personalized care plans ensure seniors receive support tailored to their needs, improving physical and emotional well-being.

Transitioning to elder home care involves open communication with your loved one about their needs and preferences. It may help to start with part-time care to allow them to adjust gradually. Involving them in the selection process and ensuring they meet the caregiver beforehand can also ease the transition.

Signs that your loved one may need senior home care include difficulty managing daily tasks, frequent falls or accidents, worsening of chronic health conditions, signs of poor nutrition or hygiene, and increased isolation or loneliness. A professional assessment by a healthcare provider or a senior care specialist can also help determine the need for home care services.

Senior home care services can often be arranged within a few days or sooner in emergencies, depending on the urgency and the provider. Many agencies offer a quick assessment process to start services as soon as possible.

Senior home care generally focuses on non-medical support, such as help with daily activities, companionship, and personal care. On the other hand, home health care involves specialized care provided by licensed professionals.

Without professional assistance, there is a higher risk of medication errors such as incorrect dosing, dangerous drug interactions, and missed doses, which can lead to serious health complications.

Caregivers often seek advice on how to monitor and ensure that their loved one’s medications are being taken as prescribed, whether through professional services, technology solutions like medication reminder apps, or simple at-home strategies.

Signs that your loved one may need medication management include frequent missed doses, confusion about their medication schedule, worsening health despite taking medications, or taking multiple medications that require careful coordination.