By: Henry Scott

Home care assistance for elderly people now constitutes a considerable part of global health care services. But the number is still not sufficient. Most of the time severe depression is the root of all health problems in geriatric patents. Despite many research and studies little is known about the mental needs of such patients.

Statistics based on a research by the National Academy of Aging Society in America reveals that more than 8 million people over seventy are facing difficulties in performing even normal tasks like walking, bathing, urinating due to age. What is worse is that the number will rise in the coming decades.

Though the number of senior home help agencies is also increasing but more medical aides from the side of government is needed to lower the burden of geriatric problems in our society.

Apart from medical and paramedical services for aged people suffering from Dementia and other age related problems a lot of NGOs and voluntary service organizations are coming up offering non-medical support for families having such patients at home. The staffs here assist elderly people in their regular activities and everyday errands. They act as companion to the patients and provide emotional support in their need.

Regular Activities – Being active is the key to healthy life. Activities, whether it is normal everyday works or light cardiovascular workout, ensure fitness. Home care assistance staffs know how to keep elders active and engaged.

Live in Care – Live in care support is needed for those who need support for performing normal activities like walking, bathing, toileting, etc. Depending on the time family members can give home help service agents can adjust their timing.

Personal Care – Trained professionals in home help service centers take care of elders. They are particular about hygiene issues while bathing and feeding patients.

Light Housekeeping – Like a friend and companion home help expert assists elderly in managing household chores such as preparing meals and healthy diet for themselves and for their families as well.

Medication Assistance – Medication helps in removing worries and eliminates mental fatigue. It rejuvenates our mind. Senior home help professionals will guide your elderly in regular medication to keep fit and healthy.

Shopping and socialization – Helping geriatric patients in shopping, participating in various social events and various other activities for socialization is another aspect of modern home help services for seniors.

The number of elderly health care service centers is increasing. But we have to remember that geriatric health care and home help should be our last recourse. Each one of us has every right to live life to the fullest. Unfortunately we often forget it when it comes to treating elderly people. In today’s fast moving world we hardly have time for them. Little we try to understand about the mental health needs of elderly people in our family.

We have to be sympathetic and more careful about our elders and spend more time with them to keep them happy. We should never forget that it was their care, love and blessing that nurtured and sustain us. So, it is our duty to give it back when they need it.