One of our greatest fears is losing our independence and self-sufficiency.  Sometimes we can compensate for declining ability in resourceful ways - hiring a neighborhood teen to clean gutters or rake leaves, for example; shopping with a friend so you don’t have to drive; or using church and community-based programs that provide transportation, meals, or other assistance.

There may come a time, though, when these resources are not enough.  Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.  We often forget that fact, focusing instead on what we have lost.  Taking that first step to get the help we need is empowering.  It frees us to focus on our strengths, to put our energy and attention into areas of life that give us meaning and purpose.

In-home care, in its many forms, can be viewed as a tool at your disposal.  It allows you to remain independent and maintain a better quality of life.

Seniors today have many more resources available for maintaining their independence than their predecessors did.  Retirement communities embrace the active over-50 adult while providing a graduated variety of care assistance so the senior can age in place and still have the services needed when the time comes.  But many others choose to remain in their homes for as long as possible.  How do we support their decision and ensure they have the help they need over time?

In-home care, according to a MetLife Survey, is the predominant form of long-term care today.  So what exactly is it?

For some, this may mean simply receiving assistance provided by family members who stop by more often to help with errands, yard work and home repair. For others, it may mean receiving visits from a medically trained professional who monitors health needs.  It could also mean retaining periodic or full-time assistance from a professional home care worker or trained companion.

If you are a senior who needs care now, an older adult preparing for possible future needs, or the friend or relative of an older adult who needs assistance, in-home care may be the ideal solution.  It is an alternative that allows seniors to maintain their independence and ensures quality of life.