GIVING CARE
IN-HOME CARE PROVIDERS OFFER CRITICAL SERVICES
BY JENNIFER VON GELDERN
SHUTTERSTOCK ILLUSTRATION
As the Baby Boomer generation is aging , 10,000 Americans are turning 65 every day , which translates to a tremendous need for caregiving services . The in-home care industry has burgeoned in response to that need , with providers greatly increasing in numbers over the past couple of decades . For anyone needing these services , there is much to be researched and understood as it directly relates to personal finances , health and well-being , among other critical factors .
Within in-home services , there is a major distinction between nonmedical and medical care . The term “ caregiving ” applies to non-medical companion care in a one-on-one setting . Caregivers assist clients with activities of daily living , which include meal preparation , companionship , personal care / hygiene , transportation , medication reminders , bathing / toileting and some light bed transfers .
This is in contrast to the term “ home health care ,” which is provided by licensed medical professionals such as nurses and physical therapists . Caregiving is at the discretion of clients and their families , while home health
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72 comstocksmag . com | June 2022