When families begin to think about homecare, it’s often because they have concerns about the safety of an aging loved one who lives alone (or with an aging partner). They may be worried about falls or other physical dangers in the home, or about issues related to cognitive impairment (wandering, leaving the stove on, etc). While these are all valid reasons to consider homecare, it ignores an important element—high quality homecare improves a person’s quality of life.
Here are a few ways homecare services can help seniors live happier, healthier, more joyful lives. If you have any questions or would like to speak to Living Assistance Services about homecare services in Toronto, Mississauga and the surrounding areas, please contact us. We’d be glad to answer your questions and provide a personalised quote.
Personal care contributes to wellness
Many seniors struggle with personal care tasks such as showering or dressing due to age-related physical limitations. This may lead to less frequent bathing or wearing the same clothes for several days. No one feels their best when they haven’t bathed—not only is personal care important to physical health, it’s important mental health and one’s overall wellness. Our caregivers can help seniors bathe safely and comfortably, then assist them with dressing in clean, weather-appropriate clothing. They can also brush their hair, help them brush and floss their teeth, and even help them apply makeup upon request. This one-on-one support with personal care helps seniors feel clean, well-cared for and confident in their appearance.
Companionship supports mental health
Numerous studies have cited the health risks associated with isolation—in fact, the impact of isolation is considered just as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes per day or having an alcohol-use disorder. According to the Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health, social isolation and loneliness among older adults have been linked to an increased risk of stroke (32% higher), coronary heart disease (29% higher), dementia (50% higher), cancer mortality (25% higher) and premature death (45% higher). Those are significant numbers that translate to serious health risks to older individuals.
By hiring a caregiver from Living Assistance Services, you’re ensuring that your loved one experiences joyful companionship when you are not with them. This may involve engaging in conversation, watching television or movies together, playing cards or board games, or having our caregivers read aloud to your family member. Our caregivers can also help clients engage with their friends and neighbours by accompanying them on errands or to social engagements. They may take them to a local park where they can sit outdoors, enjoy sunshine and fresh air, and take pleasure from the sight of children playing nearby. It’s often these simple moments that have the greatest positive impact!
Support with housekeeping, nutrition and medication
Our caregivers are able to provide light housekeeping services such as dusting, vacuuming, washing dishes, doing laundry, changing sheets and making beds. They can help tidy up throughout their shift and will always clean up after making and/or serving a meal. Not only do these tasks help keep your aging loved one’s home safe and clean, they can contribute to their mental well-being and quality of life. Think of how nice it is to get into freshly washed sheets or use a fluffy, warm towel that’s just come out of the dryer—it’s an instant mood lift! Our caregivers can also ensure that your loved one is eating well, staying hydrated and taking their medication properly. Together, these services help optimize their quality of life and support good health.
If you have any questions or would like to hire a Personal Support Worker (PSW) in the Toronto or Mississauga areas, please contact us. Thanks for reading, and please share this information with anyone who may find it helpful.