Care model grows as a safe, welcoming and effective option for elderly people with high dependency
According to the World Health Organization, home care is healthcare provided in the patient’s home, as part of a broader care strategy. The aging of the Brazilian population brings new challenges for families and professionals. Among them is the search for models that meet the specific needs of each elderly person, respecting their limitations, preferences and singularities. In this context, home care has been consolidating itself as an increasingly sought-after alternative, especially for those who have just come out of prolonged hospitalization, frail elderly people, people with dementia and/or high dependency.
Receiving care at home, in the comfort of your own home, is not just a convenience or luxury, but a form of welcome that makes all the difference. For many elderly people, especially those with reduced mobility, chronic illnesses or dementia, traveling to a healthcare service can be tiring, risky and, often, unnecessary.
Family environment contributes to well-being
In the home environment, the elderly person remains in a familiar space, surrounded by memories, routines and objects that bring them security. This comfort reduces anxiety, promotes emotional well-being and often improves the response to treatment.
One of the most relevant aspects of home care is reducing the risk of hospital infections. When being cared for at home, an environment with less circulation of infectious agents, the elderly are less exposed to potentially dangerous microorganisms. This is especially important for patients who are frail, immunosuppressed or have several associated diseases (such as cancer, diabetes, malnutrition, etc.).
When entering the patient’s home, the healthcare professional sees dimensions that would be difficult to see in the office. This contact allows us to understand the family dynamics, social condition, values, preferences and level of autonomy of the elderly person. Care at home allows for a comprehensive assessment, in a trusting environment, identifying barriers in the physical space, preventing falls and guiding adaptations.
This expanded view transforms care: it stops being just clinical and starts to include social, emotional and functional aspects. For the elderly, it means being seen as a person, and not just as a carrier of a disease.
Why so many families choose this model
Several factors explain the growth of this type of attention:
- comfort and privacy in the elderly person’s own space
- reduction of indirect costs (transport, companions, time)
- maintaining routine, which is especially beneficial for patients with dementia
- choose the most suitable times for the consultation, with the family present
- no waiting time and less physical and emotional exhaustion
- strengthening the bond between team, patient and caregivers
- personalization of care, with plans adjusted to real needs
For bedridden elderly people, those with dementia or mobility difficulties, the benefits are even greater. In addition to reducing the risk of contamination, the stress caused by hospital environments, which are often strange and uncomfortable, is avoided.
Care at home requires structure and an integrated vision
Caring at home requires organization and a multidisciplinary approach. Essential practices include: detailed assessment (clinical conditions, cognition, mobility and environment); individualized care plan, updated according to the patient’s progress; continuous communication between professionals, family and health services; and focus on prevention, to avoid decompensation and new hospitalizations.
Caring at home is valuing the dignity of aging. Home care offers more than practicality: it gives the elderly person the right to age in a dignified way, surrounded by their history, bonds and affections. By integrating family, caregivers and the healthcare team, a more human, efficient and sensitive care model is created to the needs of this stage of life.
In a country that is aging rapidly, thinking about new forms of assistance is essential. And home care, when well planned and executed, is one of the most complete strategies to provide quality of life, safety and care for our elderly.
Dr. Julianne Pessequillo – CRM 160.834 | EQR 71,895
Geriatrician and general practitioner, specializing in healthy longevity
Membro da Brazil Health
