As your parents age and their health declines, you will have to talk to them about a long-term healthcare strategy. Most seniors want to remain at home, no matter what health issues they face. The ability to live in their own residence gives seniors a sense of dignity, security, and familiarity. It’s also one of the smartest options for families as a growing elderly population strains public health services. Some estimates predict that by 2030, there will be 500,000 seniors in Toronto. Most of them want to stay in their own residences, but that doesn’t have to mean living alone.
These include minor renovations, transportation help for getting out of the house, and live in care services in Toronto. Age is an evolving process and your family will have to continue to adapt to changing needs. Know your options ahead of time, respect your loved one’s wishes, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Many older adults find that arthritis and restricted mobility (or relying on walkers) makes navigating their own houses a challenge. Fortunately, some minor renovations can make their residence safer and convenient. In Ontario, seniors can find financial assistance, either through the Home Adaptation for Seniors Independence Program (HASI) or through a renovation tax credit. HASI can provide up to $3,500 in help for things like staircase railings, raised toilets, or hand rails in the bathtub. Those who don’t qualify for HASI could look toward a 15% tax credit on renovation expenses through Ontario’s Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit. There are similar credits available in the United States but there have been some tax reform changes lately so they may fluctuate with each passing year.
Simple renovations can make living in a house much easier for seniors, but they may also need additional help with transportation out of the house. In Toronto, many older adults receive companionship and transportation-based services from private homecare agencies like Mavencare. Caregivers are available to provide assistance getting around town, whether that means driving or navigating the public transit system. They also provide basic services like cooking, light housework, and companionship.
Live in caregivers working with Mavencare provide all of these services, but instead of visiting for a few hours a day, they’re always around to give you peace of mind and help your elderly loved one. Live in care services are for elderly adults who need more assistance with daily living. They may suffer from mobility issues due to arthritis or they are recovering from an operation or a stroke. Caregivers are also trained to work with older adults suffering from dementia. They can help with stairs, bathing, eating, and dressing. Home care assistance is made to help elderly adults with mobility issues keep some element of control and independence in their lives. When your aging parent needs more intensive attention, home care can mean shift services. Health care aides split 24 hours between them, meaning there is always someone wakeful and attentive to your loved one. Live in care solutions provide a solution no matter what your family needs.
