There are basic criteria that anyone securing home health care has, such as a safe and well-trained staff, ongoing support, and insurance concerns, but many families have special considerations that cannot be met by just any senior care agency.
In addition to the basic senior care services, some clients' needs are directly related to their religious beliefs or national heritage. This can involve language, meals, and activities that are geared toward a particular demographic. Meeting these specific requests elevates the level of care beyond just the basics.
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A language barrier can be a huge obstacle in home health care, perhaps an insurmountable one unless a bilingual caregiver can be found. For example, if a senior is of Hispanic descent and primarily speaks Spanish, it will be necessary for him or her to have a nurse or aide that is fluent in Spanish provide senior care services. This not only ensures that the patient's requests and statements are fully understood, but the shared language can help create a bond and facilitate better healing.
Another example: A Jewish patient will appreciate a home health professional that speaks Hebrew and is familiar with the cooking needs and traditions of the Hebrew nationality. It will be easier for the aide and more comforting for the patient if both parties are on the same wavelength in this area. The patient can relax knowing that the aide is familiar with her particular beliefs, customs, and dietary needs.
At Valley Home Health, a comprehensive senior care agency, we staff nurses and aides that are bilingual or multilingual. Currently, we have personnel that are fluent in Spanish, Hebrew, Farsi, Russian, Armenian, and more. We aim to meet each patient's individualized needs in order to facilitate recovery and contribute to the overall well-being of that person and their family.
