COVID-19 is a new illness, coming from a novel coronavirus that was discovered in the last part of 2019. As a result of this, there’s very little information about the illness, and the aftermath that survivors of the sickness will face. Now that it’s been about a year since the virus was introduced to the United States, researchers are beginning to learn more about how those that have survived the disease can best recover. One of the latest research projects that has been conducted revolves around how in-home care can help patients as they recover.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing looked at about 1,400 individuals that had survived a COVID-19 infection, and observed how home health care impacted the recovery process. It is the first published study of its kind.
What they found was quite impressive. 94 percent of those that received in-home medical care saw a drastic improvement in their symptoms and their ability to function on a day to day basis. 87 percent of those that were observed in this setting had zero adverse events during this time. Basically, they found that home health care had a big positive impact on the life of those that were recovering from the coronavirus.
There are some big takeaways here, especially as parts of the country see rises in the number of cases of COVID. Some communities are even seeing their hospitals reach full capacity. This is alarming, but the fact that recovery can be effectively achieved in an at home setting is very encouraging. It also allows those that have more immediate needs to find room in the hospital setting so that they can receive intensive treatment.
There’s still a lot to learn about COVID-19 and it’s long term impact on those that have had it. This study is a big step in the right direction for helping those with the illness see the best prognosis possible.
Even with this evidence in support of in-home care, it might not be the right kind of help for your family. It’s important that your family and the unique experiences and needs that you all have are taken into account when you are selecting senior care.
It is worth noting that there is a distinction that should be made when it comes to terminology here. Home health care is medical care that is provided in the home. In-home care tends to refer to non-medical care. Depending on the needs of a loved one, one of these is likely more appropriate than another. Understanding your loved one’s needs and how best to meet them is important if you are going to get the most out of long term care, regardless of whether your loved one has had COVID-19 or is looking for something traditional involving more long term support.
If you’re unsure of what is best for your family’s unique needs, please get in touch with a doctor or senior care professional that is familiar with your situation. They can help you know what to accomplish with whatever care you decide is best for your loved ones.
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