Having the chance to age in your own home is something of a privilege. The allied health services in Australia work hard to ensure that more and more elderly citizens are able to remain in their own home for longer. Having independence, dignity, and that sense of comfort in the home is recognised to make the ageing process much smoother.
The range of home support services for the elderly extends from in-home nursing to home rehabilitation. Depending on the individual’s case and their need requirements, the allied health services also offer complete care at home. This brings peace of mind not only the elderly resident in question but also their family members.
What is the allied health workforce?
The term allied services is an umbrella term used to cover people working in a variety of health disciples. This does, however, exclude doctors and nurses. Those working in the allied health services are in professions which aim to provide greater autonomy to people with health concerns. The allied health services cover support systems ranging from chiropractic to pharmacy, and from physiotherapy to osteopathy.
Some other allied health services include:
- Psychology
- Nutritionists
- Music therapists
- Audiologists
- Counsellors
- Speech pathologists
- Social workers
- Dietitian
- Pathologists
Allied health services for ageing
When it comes to ageing in the home specifically, there is a broad variety of allied health services available. Typically, there are agencies which connect clients in need with the services that are most suited to their requests. These type of agencies will provide clients with the information they need, such as
Knowledge about different types of aged care services
If they are eligible for allied services in their home
A rough cost estimate for budgeting purposes
This all helps elderly residents to make the most informed decision about what allied health services they should look at investing in. With more information, the best choices can be made and extend the longevity of ageing in the home.
What type of care is provided with the services?
When it comes to choosing an allied health service, it is important to know what they will offer and if this will be suitable for the needs of the person seeking the service. Every case is individual and it is important to consult a professional before moving forward with allied health service. Listed below is a rough outline of some of the allied health services available and their benefits for ageing in the home.
Home rehabilitation for post surgery comfort. There are many cases of elderly citizens requiring surgery, such as hip replacements and knee surgery. Home rehabilitation provides physiotherapists and occupational therapists to help people return to the comfort of their own bed for optimal recovery.
In-home nursing is typically referred to by a GP and allows elderly citizens to have the peace of mind of regular check-ups. As people age, it becomes more difficult, or not possible at all, to drive or walk to the doctor clinic. In-home nursing provides registered nurses, carers, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists to provide regular check-ups. During the checkups, clients will have their general health and wellbeing assessed, any wounds tended to, medication and pain management discussed, and palliative care if necessary. This once again brings comfort and support to the elderly person in question and their extended family members.
Complete care at home is well suited for elderly citizens with high levels of care but who wish to continue living in their own independent space. Typically this type of allied health service is offered on a case by case basis and provides complete and flexible care in specific circumstances. From registered nurses who can assess and monitor the general health and wellbeing of a client to domestic carers who help with general cleaning and meal preparation, this type of allied health service brings much peace of mind to elderly residents and their families.