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In my Grandmother's later years she found a handsome boyfriend. He lived only a five minute drive away from her, but that distance felt more like the Atlantic Ocean. Both my grandma and her beaux had lost their ability to drive years before; my grandma from macular degeneration, and he from poor overall health. She began to worry about her ability to carry-out her simple everyday tasks and keep in contact with the man in her life.

When the two of them separately made the decision to employ Homecare professionals, all that changed. They were like two teenagers with chaperones escorting them around town. The Homecare professionals, or Caregivers, provided the transportation that brought the couple together and helped keep them in communication throughout the day.

Getting old is stressful enough. The amount of changes that people face as they reach into their older years is overwhelming. Compounding physical ailments, immobility, and the threat of needing to leave the comfort of their home for assisted care contribute to depression and anxiety in the elderly. When you*re ill or in recovery, nothing can match the security and comfort of your own home. Research proves that living at home creates a sense of mental and physical wellbeing for the elderly. For these reasons, Homecare can be a lifesaver, literally.

Compared to nursing homes and hospitals, Homecare can be a cost- effective alternative and can help to postpone or prevent the need for other more expensive forms of care. It provides individualized assistance that's tailored to your personal needs; helping you or your elderly loved ones maintain independence and dignity.

I don*t know what my grandmother would do without extra help for her simple day-to-day tasks. Her Caregiver provides food preparation and diet monitoring, light housekeeping, errands, shopping, and hygiene assistance. My Grandmother is a very independent and strong-minded woman-- you could even call her a *live-wire*-- and I personally believe that having a Caregiver helps her maintain her spirit and sense of independence, allowing her to live in her own home, perform all her usual activities, remain social, mobile, and spirited.

There are numerous Homecare agencies and private Caregivers that you can research individually online. It's very important to screen all potential Caregivers for experience and credentials. Make sure you find a person who *gels* with you or your elderly family member. Some agencies even rotate caregivers if you need assistance around the clock.

Getting a Caregiver is like adopting a new family member. Make sure they understand all the needs and preferences of you and your family. Allow for consistent communication and feedback.