As trends in care for older adults continue to shift away from traditional institutional settings, more and more Central Ohio seniors are finding they need help to remain safely in their homes.
And Wexner Home Care is stepping in to fill that need.
"We are seeing the impact of care for older adults shifting toward the home," said Erin Keller, WHV Director of Care Coordination. "That, combined with a senior population that is growing exponentially, has really kept us on our toes."
As of mid-September, the Home Care team was on track to double the average daily hours of service provided to clients, compared to January 2014.
Wexner Home Care's services extend beyond traditional home care by providing every client with professional care management services. Clients are continuously evaluated by geriatric care managers to ensure they are receiving appropriate and high-quality care that can prevent unplanned hospitalizations and promote overall health and wellness.
"This value-added service means we truly go above and beyond the industry standard for home care," Keller said. "This is not just about help with bathing, dressing, laundry and housekeeping. This is about keeping an eye on the big picture."
To keep up with growing demand, Keller said she is looking to hire a number of new home health aides and State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs). There is a particular need, she said, for bi-lingual staff, for example those who speak Russian and Spanish.
"As our community has become more culturally diverse, we have worked to eliminate barriers to quality care," Keller said. "One of those barriers is language. Being able to communicate effectively is one way to ensure our clients receive the services they need and are satisfied with their care."
