During November’s National Long-Term Care Awareness Month, you should sit down and address your dad’s need for care. Too many families don’t consider the “what ifs” and end up having to make plans in a rush. Here are facts you should keep in mind when considering your dad’s future care needs.
About Seven Out of Ten Older Adults Need Long-Term Care
By the time you turn 65, you have a 67% chance that long-term care services will be necessary at some point. For some, unpaid care is all that’s needed, but 42% end up needing paid care.
One Out of Five Older Adults End Up Needing Long-Term Care for Five or More Years
Your dad might think that if he needs home care, it will only be a year or two. One out of five older adults ends up needing long-term care for more than five years.
Chronic Health Conditions Increase the Odds of Needing Care
If your dad has one or more chronic health conditions, such as dementia, diabetes, or high blood pressure, he’s more likely to need care. He’s more likely to have chronic health conditions if his parents or siblings have them.
People Who Live Alone Are More Likely to Require Home Care Services
Does your dad live alone? He might enjoy the independence and freedom, but it also makes him more likely to need home care services as he ages. When supported by caregivers, he’s more likely to be able to stay at home for the rest of his life.
Many Older Adults Require an Average of Over 20 Hours of Care a Week
Just over 22 hours of care services are the national average. It breaks down to about three hours of help every day of the week. This may include having someone available to cook meals and clean the home. It can also mean having someone available to accompany your dad on trips to grocery stores, medical offices, or social events.
Seven Out of Ten Adults 90 or Older Have a Disability
By the age of 90, 69% of adults have a disability that requires them to have long-term care services. Mobility issues are often limiting and prevent a person from being able to drive on their own or safely go up or down stairs, which makes exiting the home a challenge.
Family Members Are Not Always the Best Choice
Before you decide that you’ll be your dad’s caregiver, make sure you’re able to do that. You have to consider what it will cost you. Can you afford to quit your job at this point? If not, do you have the energy and time to invest in both your career, your dad’s care, and your social life?
Have a discussion about your dad’s goals and discuss the benefits of home care. Even if your dad only needs a caregiver once a week, it’s better to talk about it now than to make plans after an emergency occurs. Sit down and discuss your dad’s long-term goals and what home care can offer him.
Sources:
https://acl.gov/ltc/basic-needs/who-needs-care
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Centennial, CO, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Denver today. 303-756-9322
