Having worked in the senior care industry for many years, I’ve seen many changes. As the aging population lives longer, they face many more health challenges. As a result, it may become necessary to bring outside help into the home. Today, aging adults have more options as to how and where they live. Many elders are choosing to live at home for as long as possible or move into a family member’s home.

By the year 2030, 20 percent of the American population will be age 65 or older. The largest number of these will live alone, or with a spouse who can no longer fully care for them. Non-medical home care may become the option.

Just because a senior is having more problems at home does not mean it’s time to move elsewhere. We must first determine if care is needed and take the senior’s needs and wishes into account. Non-medical home care might be ideal for an older adult who just needs some additional support while recovering from an illness or injury, but sometimes it goes beyond this. Many individuals need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, taking medication, and preparing meals. There are also safety considerations; an elder with dementia or Alzheimer’s needs additional supervision. In addition to assistance with activities of daily living, many individuals need help with household chores, laundry, running errands, and transportation. All of these services are now under the umbrella of non-medical care.

Many non-medical companies offer specialized care by trained caregivers, especially in the field of memory care. This is an area where I’ve seen the greatest change. As an individual ages, the likelihood of some form of memory loss also increases. Caring for elders with memory loss can place a strain on the family. Professional staff from non-medical companies provides care for that individual and support for the family.

While more long-term care insurance companies are covering this option, it is still primarily paid for by the family or client. There are programs available through the Veterans Administration and state government to assist with cost if you qualify. Care can be provided for a few hours a week up to “24/7” and can be short term or long term, depending on the need.

Non-medical care is no longer simply about companionship for the aging, but also a tool to allow individuals to remain independent for a longer period of time. It gives families peace of mind knowing that someone helping care for their loved one, and can provide the much needed respite to help relatives remain loving spouses, daughters, sons, etc., in addition to being caregivers.

Dennis Gunther is a member of the planning committee for the Mid-America Institute on Aging, co-sponsored by the University of Southern Indiana and SWIRCA & More. More information is at http://health.usi.edu/chaw/default.asp