New Hampshire is one of the first states that acts as a bellweather every four years as we ready ourselves for presidential elections. They may also be the leader and state that the nation looks to when it comes to senior care. The number of people 85 and older is among the fastest growing population in the state of New Hampshire and with this growth comes an increase in the number of adult children facing decisions about how to care for their aging parents who can no longer care of themselves. More caregiving children are looking towards options such as home health aides and adult day care programs to provide health and social services for their parents during the day as they maintain their position in the work place.
This shift to day services is favored by the senior population. According to a release by the New Hampshire branch of the AARP, 84% of retired people surveyed in the state support a shift to state funding from nursing homes to home and community based services. These programs promote socialization as a major part of their curriculum through activities such as arts and crafts and card games with new friends. Some programs even provide transportation, health services and meals.
In comparison to the fees of a nursing or assisted living facility, the price of adult day care or an at home health aide is cost effective for many families. It allows the caregiver the chance to maintain their daily lifestyle and helps the senior maintain some level of independence. With our troubling economic times, a shift in how care is provided could again follow New Hampshire's lead.
