One of the growing segments of the Australian population is adults over the age of 65. According to reports, there were more than 3.5 million Australians aged 65 and over, which comprises over 15% of the total populace. The elderly population is increasing steadily and is expected to continue to grow over the next decade.
The elderly population is prone to having chronic diseases, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. This makes them spend more and more time on hospital treatments.
If you happen to be a part of the elderly population or know someone who is, then be sure to read on. This article will discuss the essential things you need to know about home doctor services for the elderly.
What is Home Doctor Service?
Home doctor service, also known as in-home medical care or simply “house call” is a method of medical practice among doctors. Home doctor service refers to doctors visiting patients in their homes to provide both preventive care and medical treatment for their health conditions.
A home doctor can provide preventive medical care for the management of chronic disorders as well as treatment of present health illnesses. In-home medical care may also include professional services from physical, speech, and occupational therapists.
What Specific Services do Home Doctors Provide?
Home doctors offer a wide range of services for elderly patients in the home, but it can be customised according to an individual’s health concerns and needs. Some of these services include the following:
- Primary Care. When elderly patients suffer from symptoms of an undiagnosed health concern, home doctors can provide a visit to make a diagnosis.
- Routine Follow-Ups. An integral component of in-home medical services, it is the continuing care of varied medical conditions.
- Palliative Care. According to an article by the World Health Organisation, this is a medical approach that aims to improve the quality of life of patients that suffer from health problems associated with life-threatening medical conditions.
- Dementia Care. A specialised form of in-home medical care, it aims to maintain the quality of life of patients that suffer from early-stage, mid-stage, or late-stage dementia.
Who Qualifies for Home Doctor Services?
Individuals in late adulthood or adults over the age of 65 are the most common beneficiaries of house calls or in-home medical services. This is because this age group is more prone to mobility problems caused by disabling diseases or injuries. However, this doesn’t mean that other patients can’t benefit from in-home visits.
Lack of transportation or no access to transportation could also be factors for patients to opt for in-home visits because it is more convenient for them. Elderly patients who suffer from mental health disorders or memory problems such as Alzheimer’s and dementia should opt for in-home services, to prevent unnecessary injuries.
Things to Consider When Choosing an In-Home Medical Service
When choosing an in-home medical service, it is of the utmost importance that you choose one that is composed of the most expertly skilled professionals; this is to ensure that you are provided with excellent medical care.
The in-home medical service should have excellent medical infrastructure and round the clock after-hours services. This is to cater to emergencies and provide urgent medical attention to patients who need it the most when it matters.
Lastly, always choose an in-home medical service that is trusted and reliable. This way, you rest assured that you or your loved one will be receiving quality medical care.
