What are common misconceptions about receiving support at home? Is there a stigma associated with it and that someone is now considered “old” if they are over age 60 and needing help at home? The myth is that people lose their independence if they ask for help and want a caregiver at home.
Why is it that someone “younger” in their 20s, 30s, or 40s needing assistance at home after a surgery is considered normal or acceptable; but once you reach your 50s, 60s, 70s and up, you are now “old and decrepit”?
In reality, studies show that getting help at home earlier with everyday tasks—such as light housekeeping for fall prevention, meal preparation for better nutrition, and companionship for socialization—can help aging adults experiencing mild physical or cognitive changes maintain their independence longer!
A comprehensive review of 20 studies that included over three million total participants showed the evidence of outcomes resulting from supports to age in place at home that included reduced admissions to long-term care facilities, improved functional abilities, benefits to quality of life, early detection of health changes, reduced healthcare costs, reduced falls/risks, and a decrease in loneliness (https://www.mdpi.com/3425042).
This aligns with the SCHAS Vision and Mission to impact safely aging in place and enhancing quality of life for older adults, Veterans, and people with disabilities.
We can change the stigma by celebrating independence and strength through early intervention and prevention strategies such as having an in-home caregiver. Call SCHAS today!