Griswold Home Care: Mental Health Benefits of Aging in Place

Griswold, the non-medical home care franchise, was recently featured on WOLF-TV (FOX Affiliate) for its compassionate approach to helping seniors age in place and the mental health benefits that come with it. As Mental Health Awareness Month wrapped up, the segment spotlighted how remaining at home can help elderly clients maintain emotional well-being, comfort and dignity — elements that are often lost in institutional settings.

“They are most comfortable at home. That is where their memories are, that is where they thrive. They are comfortable, they know where everything is. The job of the Caregiver is to come in and just benefit them living at home,” said Alexia Kopchak, a Caregiver for Griswold.

Beyond the practical benefits, Caregivers and families spoke about the emotional impact of home care.

“I had a daughter say to me that when she went to visit her dad she walked up to the porch and the home smelled like when her mom was still alive and cooking and cleaning,” said Christy Nuss, director of Griswold NEPA.

Kopchak also shared how she personally treats every client like a grandparent, which helps her forge deeper emotional connections and offer more heartfelt care.

Still, challenges remain. The cost of in-home care and a shortage of professional Caregivers are major hurdles. “When you go into a hospital or a rehab center, you’re in an unfamiliar environment being taken care of by people you don’t really know,” said Kopchak.