What services are provided by home health care?
If you recently had a serious illness or injury, you might be in need of home health services. There are many services available, from physical therapy to nursing services. Here are some different home health services to consider getting while you recover.
Help With Daily Activities
Basic home health services are provided by a home health aide, who does not provide medical care but helps with other things you can't do on your own. They often help with chores you need done at home that you can't do yourself, such as running errands, doing laundry, making your bed, and preparing meals. They might also help you with daily tasks like dressing, bathing, toileting, and eating. While the home health aide is not able to administer medications, they can ensure you are taking the right medications at normal intervals during the day.
Physical Healthcare Services
There are two main types of healthcare services offered by home health agencies, including physical and mental services. Physical services are usually provided by a nurse. This is often needed if you had surgery, cancer, or a severe illness recently. They can administer medications, including through an IV, check your vitals, change colostomy bags, and provide many other medical services. They are often there to help you recover and ensure you are showing no signs of infection or additional ailments.
Mental Healthcare Services
Mental healthcare services are usually provided by a social worker or therapist. They may come to your home at regular intervals or only when you request it. There are different reasons you might need mental healthcare services, such as if you had a traumatic accident that not only caused injuries but has given you some post-traumatic stress disorder as well. A social worker might also come to your home if you are currently on hospice for end-of-life care.
Recovery and Therapy
Recovery and therapy services include occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy. For example, if you had surgery for a broken leg following a sports injury, you may need to have a physical therapist visit you at home to work on strengthening your muscles after the surgery and improve your mobility. Occupational therapy helps you perform a variety of different daily tasks, from household chores to getting yourself dressed. Speech therapy is often needed for people who suffered a stroke or similar incident.
When you have a surgical procedure or injury, you don't need to handle the recovery on your own. Home health services can be a great way to have assistance, medical care, and companionship while you heal. For more information, contact a local home healthcare service like Bromilow Home Support Services Pty Ltd.