As we age, our needs evolve, and the support required to safely remain at home may also change. Initially, in-home care might involve a caregiver assisting with tasks that require just a few hours here and there, such as preparing meals or running errands. However, as time goes on, this level of assistance may no longer be sufficient. The need for late-night support to ensure safety may arise, prompting family caregivers to consider whether 24-hour care might be worth exploring.
What Is 24-Hour Care, and When Is It Best?
24-hour care, also known as around-the-clock care, involves continuous support and assistance provided to individuals who require constant supervision and assistance with activities of daily living. This level of care is typically necessary for older adults or individuals with complex medical needs, cognitive impairments, or physical disabilities that make it challenging for them to live independently.
Conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or advanced stages of chronic illnesses may warrant the need for 24-hour care. These conditions often require monitoring for safety, assistance with mobility, medication management, and personal care throughout the day and evening hours. 24-hour care ensures that individuals receive the attention and support they need to maintain their quality of life and safety while remaining in the comfort of their own home.
Benefits of 24-Hour Care
Around-the-clock care offers so much to both individuals and the families who love them, including:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that a loved one has constant supervision and assistance can alleviate worries and ensure they are safe at all times.
- Immediate Response: In emergencies or situations requiring immediate attention, having caregivers available 24/7 ensures prompt assistance.
- Prevention of Falls and Accidents: Many older adults are at risk of falls, especially during the night. 24-hour care minimizes this risk by providing assistance with mobility and personal care around the clock.
- Medication Adherence: Ensuring medications are taken at the correct times is crucial for those with complex medical needs. Caregivers can oversee medication schedules and ensure doctors’ orders are followed, day and night.
- Emotional Support: Loneliness and anxiety can be prevalent among older adults, especially those with limited mobility or cognitive decline. Having caregivers available for companionship and emotional support can greatly enhance their quality of life.
What Types of Services Are Included in Around-the-Clock Care?
Any or all of our in-home care services are available around the clock, according to each person’s specific needs and wishes, such as:
- Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, etc.
- Mobility Support: Help with transferring, walking, and using mobility aids.
- Meal Preparation: Planning and preparing nutritious meals tailored to dietary needs and preferences.
- Companionship: Engaging in conversation, recreational activities, and companionship to combat loneliness and promote mental well-being.
- Household Tasks: Light housekeeping, laundry, and errands to maintain a clean and organized living environment.
- Transportation: Accompaniment to medical appointments, exercise or other classes, fun outings—wherever and whenever the person would like to go.
If you think 24-hour care might be the right solution for someone you love, we’re here to help. We’re pleased to offer a complimentary in-home consultation to sit down with you and assess individual needs and preferences so that we can recommend the best care plan.
Whether the need is for 24-hour care or hourly care, we’re here to ensure the right level of support to promote independence, safety, and a better quality of life. Contact us at 877-71-ABRIO to find out more about our home care services in Phoenix, Mesa, Yuma, and the surrounding areas. See our Locations page to find out if we’re available to help in your area.