As Colorado ages, the demand for home care services intensifies. Like many other states, Colorado has a rapidly aging population. Currently, 13.8 percent of state residents are aged 65 or older (Source: Colorado Health Institute). By the year 2030, Colorado’s senior-aged population is projected to double (Source: U.S. Census Bureau). Home care allows these seniors to remain independent from the comfort of their own homes while providing them the companionship and personalized assistance they need.
The demand for home health aides (HHAs) or caregivers is surging across the state and will grow 40 percent in the next ten years (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Nationally, demand for HHAs is predicted to grow 25 percent, making the growth in Colorado much higher than in other regions (Source: Career Staff). Evidently, home care is a preferred option for Coloradans who wish to maintain their independence without having to relocate to a nursing home or long-term facility.
Rising Share of Older Adults
The swelling number of seniors means more significant demands for home care and in-home assistance. A variety of factors explains the rising proportion of older adults.
The dramatic growth of older adults as a share of the U.S. population can be attributed to such variables as:
More Baby Boomers (the generation born between 1946 and 1965) reaching retirement age
- Improvements in medical care and disease prevention
- Pharmaceutical advancements and innovations
- Larger focus on preventative care
- Better standards of living
- Falling birth rates
- Lower mortality rates
- Better access to health insurance like Medicare for those 65 or older
- Better access to healthcare technology, such as telehealth and telemedicine
- A growing cultural emphasis on active aging.
Home Care for Age-Related Conditions
Home care services can assist in the management of age-related conditions. Certain health conditions can become pronounced in the elderly, and supporting affected individuals in maintaining health and independence at home is paramount.
Age-related conditions home care can address are:
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia-related conditions
- Recovery from stroke
- Incontinence of urination or bowels
- Osteoporosis and bone density loss
- Visual and hearing impairments
- Issues of gait, mobility, and balance
- Cognitive decline or impairment
- Heart disease
- Cancer.
Benefits of Home Care for Seniors
Home care enables seniors to enjoy a better quality of life while remaining safe and comfortable. Seniors who significantly benefit from home care services are those living with chronic health conditions, dementia, or those recovering from surgery. Caregivers support their independence and provide needed respite to clients’ families.
The following are key advantages of home care for older adults:
Essential Care
Essential care covers the many facets of personal care, including basic hygiene, mobility assistance, and help with bathing, toileting, and dressing. Cleaning, vacuuming, and light housekeeping also fall under this category. Essential care is directly connected to quality of life and is a pillar of care for dementia patients.
Greater Independence
Caregivers optimize seniors’ independence by giving care in the comfort of their homes. Clients feel a special connection to home, where they have made memories and established a sense of community. Providing care and companionship in a familiar setting helps keep clients grounded in times of change or declining health.
Healthier Eating
A balanced diet is key in maintaining general health. Caregivers are trained to provide meal preparation to their home care clients. Seniors confined to bedrest or those with other mobility issues or cognitive impairments like dementia benefit most from this.
Medication Schedules
Adherence to medication treatment is integral to managing chronic illness, pain, and other symptoms. In addition, taking medicine as prescribed by a physician attenuates the chance of readmission. Caregivers help seniors prepare medications and offer reminders to follow physician’s orders.
Preventing Falls
Trips and falls are a major concern in senior healthcare. Caregivers ensure home safety by removing potential slipping hazards, such as loose rugs, clutter, or other obstructions. They also provide support with mobility and balance, offering walking aids or direct assistance, which further reduces the risk of dangerous falls in elderly clients.
In Closing
The demand for home care in the state of Colorado is increasing rapidly. As the state’s senior population rises, more people seek to stay at home longer with the required daily living support. Home care is a popular and viable solution for older Colorado residents who prefer to age in place.
