By Katie Noland, YWCA McLean County
As the child of an elderly parent, we want nothing more than our loved ones to be able to maintain an independent lifestyle. This can be challenging no matter what our age – the added difficulties that accompany aging only add unwanted stress. With the holidays approaching and the comfort of home coming into view, it may be time to consider options for our loved ones this holiday season.
With the demand of a family, a job, and the constant worry of the unknown, you may be asking yourself, how can mom continue to be safe and live an independent lifestyle when I’m not there to help? Trained home care aides may be the answer to those concerns.
As parents age, children find themselves taking on the role of the decision maker. Some of these decisions may involve a change in day-to-day arrangements for our loved ones. Children can assess the current state of their loved ones by looking for certain red flags. Some indicators include noticeable weight loss, change in attitude or behavior, excessive messiness, the constant difficulty of carrying out daily routines, or anything that seems out of the ordinary.
YWCA Home Care Services Coordinator, Carissa Stone, explains the importance of a home care aide, and how they can offer peace of mind to loved ones.
“Home care aides are a great asset to seniors trying to lead an independent lifestyle,” said Stone. “The aides are not only there to cook and clean, they are there for any need of the client.”
Trained home care aides offer an array of services including light housekeeping, meal preparation, bathing assistance, grocery shopping, and transportation. They also provide wellness and mentality services such as medication reminders and companionship.
“Home care programs offer safety – one of the most important factors a family member wants for their loved ones when they’re not around. It’s a consistent person checking with them on a weekly basis, and the clients can always look forward to a friendly face at their door,” said Stone. “The aides grow to know the client so well that when they enter the house, they already know what work needs to be done. Whether that’s meal preparation or bathing, the aides know what to do.”
Stone has also received many letters from clients expressing their gratitude for the services the aides bring. One client explains the impact an aide had on her life by giving her the opportunity to lead a more independent lifestyle again, saying, “Without your staff, I would have been in a nursing home. You guys have helped me with my transition back into society and you all mean the world to me!”
With so many components contributing to the well being of our loved ones, it is easy to become overwhelmed. Not knowing who to turn to can be a scary thought. Asking for help may seem heart-breaking, but doing so may give your loved ones the ability to maintain an independent lifestyle. Recognizing the need for help is the first step in improving the independent lifestyle your loved one is trying to reclaim. Calling a home care aide may be your next step.
Home care aides can provide a multitude of services to ensure your loved ones can be safe and at home for the holidays and beyond.
If you are interested in learning more about YWCA McLean County Home Care Services or any YWCA Adult Services, please call 309-662-0461 or visit www.ywcamclean.org.
Photo credit: FredFroese/iStock