Helping Seniors in Bangor, ME and Nearby Areas with Everyday Tasks

Simple things that we do every day can get harder as we get older. For adults over the age of 65, this is particularly relevant because they may be having physical and cognitive problems because of aging or other health issues. Lots of elderly people find these essential tasks too much to handle, and they risk becoming less independent as a result. Fortunately, Visiting Angels Mid Maine provides experienced in-home caregivers that aid seniors in Bangor, Brewer, Hampden, Orono, Old Town, and the surrounding areas with daily activities so they may easily age in place at home while remaining safe, comfortable, and content.

Everyday Tasks That Seniors in Bangor, ME and Surrounding Areas Usually Need Help With

There are many different reasons why seniors in Bangor and nearby areas may have difficulty with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). ADLs are the basic things that people need to do to take care of themselves. Among these activities include personal hygiene, getting dressed, eating, and toileting. However, IADLs include a wider range of activities that are essential for independent living, including transportation, grocery shopping, household maintenance, preparing meals, and financial and medication management.

Some seniors may have trouble with these tasks because of their age, health problems, or mental decline. For example, people with Alzheimer's disease may have trouble with the memory and decision-making required for IADLs, while a senior living with arthritis may have trouble with activities requiring fine motor skills.

ADLs: Examples and Struggles

Age may weaken our bodies and reduce our physical capacities. Because of this, completing ADLs may become more difficult. Another factor that could negatively impact a senior's ability to complete ADLs is the presence of a chronic health condition or an injury. They may also suffer from memory loss or cognitive decline, which can make it hard for them to remember or finish certain tasks.

Some examples of ADLs include:

• Bathing and showering
• Dressing and grooming
• Eating and drinking
• Using the restroom
• Maintaining continence
• Getting in and out of bed or a chair
• Walking or using a mobility aid

IADLs: Examples and Struggles

Some of the same issues that might make ADLs challenging for seniors in Bangor and surrounding areas may also have an impact on their capacity to accomplish IADLs. Not only that, but seniors may struggle to get out of the house for certain tasks like running errands due to factors including social isolation and a lack of transportation options.

Some examples of IADLs include:

• Housekeeping and laundry
• Meal planning and preparation
• Managing medications
• Grocery shopping and errands
• Transportation and driving
• Managing finances and bills
• Using technology and communication devices

Why Professional In-Home Care is a Better Option for Older Adults in Bangor, ME and Nearby Areas

Moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility may seem like the only option for many seniors who have difficulty with ADLs and IADLs. These facilities might not always be the best choice for elderly adults, though. That's because many elderly people experience emotional discomfort, loneliness, and despair at the thought of leaving their homes and familiar environments. Not to mention the high cost and potential lack of one-on-one support that residents of nursing homes and assisted living communities often experience.

However, with in-home care, seniors in Bangor and surrounding areas can receive the help they need with everyday tasks without having to relocate to new, unfamiliar surroundings. Not only can this help them maintain their freedom and get the level of support they truly need, but it can also be especially helpful if they're dealing with cognitive issues like dementia (which can trigger behavioral issues and distress when having to adjust to a major change in their routine) or have renovated their home to be more accessible because of a disability. However, in order to receive the right in-home care, it's essential to find a professional caregiver who not only has the right experience, but is totally committed to making a positive impact in the lives of older adults.

How In-Home Care from Visiting Angels Mid Maine Can Help

At Visiting Angels Mid Maine, we know that each senior has their own specific needs. That is why our clients can expect a tailored approach to their care. Seniors in Bangor and surrounding areas can stay in their own homes and age in place without having to deal with the stress and trouble of moving with the help of our professional in-home caregivers.

Our caregivers can assist with the following ADLs and IADLs:

• Personal hygiene and grooming assistance
• Bathing and dressing assistance
• Meal planning and preparation
• Medication reminders
• Light housekeeping and laundry
• Transportation to appointments and errands
• Companionship and socialization

We at Visiting Angels Mid Maine think that the best way to provide in-home care for seniors is to make it fit the needs of each and every client. That is why we meticulously craft unique care plans for every care recipient. Together, you and your loved one will identify the specific things they need help with, and our staff will then develop a plan of care to meet those needs while also working with their schedule, preferences, and other factors. In addition, we make sure our clients are getting the best care possible by reviewing and updating their care plans on a regular basis.

Visiting Angels Mid Maine has been providing professional in-home care to older adults in Bangor and the surrounding communities who are experiencing difficulty with daily duties since 2016. We help seniors age in place by tailoring our services to each individual's needs so they may continue living independently and enjoying life to the fullest as they age.

Contact our Bangor, ME office today by calling 207-573-1861 or filling out our form to learn more about our in-home care services and how we can help your loved one.