The numbers are in, and they show that it’s just about impossible for most older Americans to avoid living with a chronic condition as they age. Research by the CDC, National Library of Medicine, and National Council of Aging points to 80% of Americans age 65 and older having at least one chronic health condition and 60% having two or more.

According to the NCOA, the most common chronic condition in seniors is hypertension. The others in order of commonality based on a 2018 Medicare report are: high cholesterol, obesity, arthritis, coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, depression, and Alzheimer’s/dementia.

Living with a chronic condition can present numerous challenges, such as:

  • Mental health: Chronic conditions may increase the risk of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Physical limitations: These conditions often cause physical restrictions that impact daily activities.
  • Social challenges: Social isolation and loneliness, common with chronic illnesses, can negatively affect overall health.
  • Financial strain: The costs associated with managing chronic conditions can create financial burdens.
  • Adjusting to a new identity: Chronic conditions may necessitate adapting to a new sense of self.

As a non-medical home care provider, we at Amada Senior Care are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults, especially those managing chronic health conditions. Chronic care services play a crucial role in ensuring seniors not only live longer but also enjoy their golden years with dignity and independence. Here are how these services benefit seniors and their families:

Addressing Complex Senior Health Needs

Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and heart disease often require continuous monitoring and specialized care to avoid the risk of complications if they are not managed well. Chronic care services are designed to:

  • Provide personalized care plans: Tailored to each senior’s unique needs, these plans address medical, emotional, and social aspects of their health.
  • Ensure medication management: Avoiding missed doses or medication errors is vital for managing chronic illnesses effectively.
  • Offer regular health monitoring: Early detection of complications can prevent hospitalizations and improve overall outcomes.

Enhancing Quality of Life as Seniors Age

Living with chronic conditions can be challenging, but comprehensive care makes a significant difference by:

  • Reducing pain and discomfort: Through physical therapy, pain management strategies, and adaptive technologies. The latter, also known as assistive technology, include low-tech and high-tech devices from automatic pill dispensers,personal emergency remote system, durable medical equipment, and more.
  • Promoting independence: Assisting with daily activities while encouraging seniors to maintain as much autonomy as possible.
  • Fostering emotional well-being: Providing companionship and support to alleviate feelings of isolation and depression.

Preserving Senior Independence

Independence is a cornerstone of dignity for many seniors. Chronic care services help preserve this independence by:

  • Encouraging self-management: Providing seniors with tools and education to take an active role in managing their health.
  • Adapting home environments: Ensuring homes are safe and accessible with modifications such as grab bars or mobility aids.
  • Offering in-home support: Delivering care that allows seniors to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

Advocacy for Seniors

Seniors managing chronic conditions often need someone in their corner to ensure their voices are heard. Advocacy services within chronic care include:

  • Navigating healthcare systems: Assisting seniors in understanding and accessing benefits, insurance, and resources.
  • Ensuring respect and dignity: Standing up for seniors’ rights in medical and social settings.
  • Coordinating across providers: Acting as a liaison between doctors, specialists, and families to ensure seamless care.

Supporting Families of Aging Loved Ones

Chronic care services not only benefit seniors but also offer peace of mind to their families. Caregivers can feel confident that their loved ones are receiving expert care, which:

  • Eases the burden of care: Reducing the physical and emotional strain on family members.
  • Provides education and resources: Helping families understand their loved one’s condition and how to support them effectively.
  • Ensures continuity of care: With professional caregivers coordinating with doctors and specialists.

Preventing Senior Hospitalizations

One of the key objectives of chronic care services is to prevent unnecessary hospital visits. This is achieved through:

  • Proactive care: Collaborating with a healthcare provider, along with family and caregiver to identifying potential health issues before they escalate.
  • Prioritizing self-care: Encouraging seniors to engage in self-care practices is vital for managing chronic conditions effectively.
  • Staying physically active: The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two days weekly.

Our Commitment to Compassionate Care

At Amada Senior Care, we see firsthand the transformative impact chronic care services have on the lives of seniors and their families. By combining non-medical at-home support with genuinely compassionate caregiving, these services empower seniors to manage their conditions while living fulfilling lives.

If you or a loved one is navigating the challenges of chronic illness, know that you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to us to learn more about how chronic care services can make a difference. CLICK HERE to find an Amada location near you.