There are times in our life when we need help. The same goes for our senior loved ones. Some occasions may simply require support for a short time while during the recovery from an injury or medical procedure, but chronic conditions may necessitate care that is much more significant.
Since each condition requires care of different lengths, care services are divided into long and short-term care. Short-term care refers to services that range from mere days to several months. After an injury, surgery, or other complication, an individual many need help with daily chores around the home. They may even require assistance with personal care such as bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, and so forth.
Long term care encompasses many of the same services that short-term services does, but it is designed for those with chronic conditions or progressive diseases. Examples of these ailments include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, late stage cancer, and so forth. Many times seniors who require long term care need assistance that is beyond what family and friends can provide.
Both short and long term care services can include brief visits or extend to 24-hour home care. The deciding factor is the level of supervision and support required by the senior.
One of the main differences between short and long term care is the need for increased services. Short-term care is typically consistent from the time the person first starts services until they are released from care. Long term care usually progresses and becomes more complex. For example, a senior may initially only need help with light housekeeping and medication management. As their condition deteriorates, they may require personal care assistance, transportation services, comfort care, and so forth. In addition to the number of services, the intensity of the services may progress as well. Long term care may even transitions into a hospice situation if needed.
Perhaps the most important aspect of short term care and long term care is that they both meet your loved one right where they are at to accommodate their specific needs. From the length of service to the type of care provided, you have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your senior loved one is safe and getting the care they require for as long as they need it.