Vancouver Courier

March 7, 2007

Pay-as-you-go Home Care

The sector of older or mobility-challenged seniors in need of home care in B.C. is continually increasing. On a day-to-day basis, it is often necessary to make use of a private company's services to offer complete reassurance, and safety as well. Whether a senior is in his or her own home, retirement lodgings or an extended care facility, there are services that can make those advanced years more comfortable and dignified.

Kristan Ash, director of operations for Nurse Next Door, has herself been a family caregiver for several years. She realized that many seniors would like to "age in place," and has overseen the placement of her caring, expert staff as they look after seniors with needs.

"When it comes time for a senior to have added care, he or she, or oftentimes their family member, should contact their community health unit to see what services can be provided through the government," Kirstan advises.

"And then, once the person has been assessed by our case manager, we are here to fill in the gaps of daily care."

Nurse Next Door, as well as other companies in this industry, provide a full spectrum of care, from providing meals and housekeeping or going on outings - all the way to complete personal care (like bathing or getting in and out of bed), and end of life, palliative care.

"It costs less than $40 a day for a two-hour visit. Some seniors need more attention, and the quality of life benefit and companionship that the person receives is well worth it," Kristan says.

"If necessary, you can even have a 24-hour-a-day, live-in registered nurse from Nurse Next Door," she concludes. "And that's peace of mind for seniors and their families."

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