A Glossary of Home Care Industry Terms

Every industry has its own language and terms. These words and phrases can be confusing to anyone who is not part of the daily operations of a specific industry, and the home care industry is no exception.

To help you understand the terms, acronyms, and phrases regularly used when availing home care services for seniors or ailing family members, Senior Care Safe At Home Inc. has created this handy reference guide. Here you’ll find valuable information allowing you to comprehend and communicate your home care needs effectively.

Personal care services.

Personal care services is a situation where the caregiver has to touch the client. For example, help with dressing or assist with standing.

Respite care.

Respite care is a family member who is working as the primary caregiver but is getting tired physically and emotionally and needs outside help.

Activities of daily living.

Activities of daily living are bathing, dressing, transferring, meal preparation, medication reminder, and escorting to appointments.

Dementia.

Dementia is a brain disorder that affects communication and performance of activities of daily living.

Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a common cause of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a very specific form of dementia. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include impaired thoughts, impaired speech, and confusion.

Incontinence.

Incontinence is the loss of bladder control, varying from a slight loss of control after sneezing, coughing, or laughing to complete inability to control urination.

Skilled care service.

A case where the client may need a syringe and needle for food and medication, or perhaps there are open wounds that need dressing. This case would require a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or a doctor.

Nursing assessment.

It is required every ninety days with personal care cases.

ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is also called Lou Gehrig's disease. It is a very rare disease with fewer than 20,000 cases per year. It is a nervous system disease that weakens muscles and impacts physical function.

Guillain Barre Syndrome Disease.

A condition in which the immune system attacks the nerves. It is very rare with fewer than 20,000 cases per year.

CNA.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a license that requires the caregiver to go to school, clinics, a board exam, and pass the board exam.

Licensed Practical Nurse.

A caregiver who has the education and holds the license to be able to work on a skilled care case.

If you’re looking for in-home senior care in Sterling, VA, reach out to the experts at Senior Care Safe At Home Inc. We offer a full-service senior care facility to spend your golden years in. We also provide quality personal care in the comfort of your home. We care for senior citizens, adults with deliberating illnesses, and even patients recovering from surgery. We are committed to delivering excellent personal care services at affordable rates to help disabled patients feel more independent and comfortable in their homes.

For more information, view our full list of services here, read customer reviews here, or get in touch with us here.