In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the approach to care for older adults in the United States. With the continued strain on healthcare systems and a growing desire to prioritize comfort and familiarity, more families are opting for at-home care over traditional hospital, hospice, or nursing home settings. This trend is not only driven by external pressures on the healthcare system but also by an increased recognition of the benefits of older adults living in their own homes.
One significant aspect of this shift is the emergence of hospital-at-home programs. These programs, offered by many leading medical institutions, aim to provide hospital-level care in the comfort of patients’ homes. By leveraging technology and skilled healthcare professionals, hospitals can deliver a wide range of services, from acute medical care to post-surgical recovery, without the need for prolonged hospital stays. This not only reduces the burden on healthcare facilities but also enhances patients’ quality of life by allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings.
A similar trend can also be seen for private duty home care, where statistics reflect the growing popularity of this as a preferred option for older adults. According to recent data, the demand for at-home care services has surged, with a significant increase in the number of families opting for at-home care solutions over traditional nursing home placements. With 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 each day, according to the Census Bureau, and a reported 77% of adults over the age of 50 preferring to “age in place,” this movement is only expected to grow exponentially from here.
Mitch Markowitz, Vice President of Business Development at Family & Nursing Care, emphasizes the importance of this shift, “At-home care offers an unmatched level of personalized attention and comfort for older adults that can often improve recovery outcomes. At the same time, it’s equally important for home care companies to collaborate with healthcare providers when individuals are discharged to cover any potential gaps and ultimately ensure a successful return to health.”
As one of the oldest and leading home care resources in Maryland and Washington, D.C., Family & Nursing Care’s mission is to help older adults live their fullest independent lives in the comfort of their own homes. For more than 55 years, we’ve assisted tens of thousands of families by providing access to Caregivers who help with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, errands, meal prep, light housekeeping, medication reminders, companionship, and more.
Driven by a desire to improve patient outcomes, alleviate pressure on healthcare systems, and promote independence and comfort for older adults, the rise of at-home care represents a fundamental change for this industry. And as the demand for at-home care continues to grow, providers like Family & Nursing Care are prepared to play a crucial role in supporting the evolving needs of aging populations and their families.
To learn more about our leading home care services, visit the Why Us? page on our website.