While watching the evening news or reading reports on the internet, you'll find that some are predicting that the number of people able to live to age 85 or older is expected to rise by three times by 2050. That is in just the United States alone. While this is good to hear, it also shows the need for more medical care for seniors is growing as well.

While no one looks forward to the idea of placing one's parent in a retirement home, that is the reality for many. However, more and more senior home care companies are popping up everywhere making the hope for continuing to live at home more of a reality.

Many new agencies focusing on the needs of senior citizens are finding new options of in-home care that couldn't be offered years ago and many are more affordable than ever.

Elderly seniors who continue to live at home are usually more happy, healthy and more at peace. This in turn takes away the worry and stress off the loved ones caring for them. Seniors who continue to live at home are able to hang on to their dignity and sense of personal freedom. The help providers work around the senior's schedule, not the other way around.

True, some senior home care options are more expensive than traditional retirement home care, but this isn't always the case. It really depends on the amount of care needed on a daily basis. For those suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia, the costs could go way up, but the trade off just might make it worth it to you.

Let's face it, there are very few of us who have the skills needed to take care of a senior citizen's medical needs on our own. Even if we could, the stress of such could be overwhelming. Bringing in a qualified staff person into the home of your parent could help relieve a lot of stress for you. The key is to bring in someone who enjoys working with and being with senior citizens. Just because someone is good at their job means that they will be the right one to work with your parent.

While your parents are healthy and active is the best time to talk with them about future options. If you suspect that your parent will do whatever is easiest for the family, you might be surprised to learn that they would much rather stay put if at all possible.

If you and your family are facing a similar situation in your own lives right now, or will be soon, take the time to scour the internet or phonebook for options of senior home care near you.

Author's Bio: 

I'm a healthcare consultant specializing in senior home care in Columbia. You may also be interested in reading more information about the people