Caring for an elderly loved one can be a daunting task, especially when you are trying to juggle these responsibilities while still raising a family at home. Hiring outside professional help can provide relief for you as well as the proper care for your aging parent. How do you go about finding the right senior care for you? Here are three tips for choosing the best home care provider.
Determine Your Exact Needs
To find the best home health care solution, you’ll need to determine what needs the provider will fill. Most seniors in the U.S. who receive home care are over 65 years old. Around 97% require assistance with bathing and 91% need assistance getting out of bed. Your loved one may have similar needs but may also need help with medications, showering, or getting groceries. These are all things an in-home care provider can take care of for you.
Research Your Options
Go online and search for the names and contact information of respite care agencies in your local area. Look for their credentials and awards they may have received. Check reviews and visit the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has received any complaints. Ask family and friends for any recommendations they may have. You can also ask your parent’s doctor or nurse for any suggestions as well.
Conduct Interviews
Narrow your choices down to three or four providers and schedule in-person interviews. Ask about the experience level and training of the caregivers the agency employs. You may also want to know if there will be one specific person that will be handling the care or will multiple people coming in and out of the home. Towards the end of the interview, find out if they charge by the hour or by shift and how much services will cost. Also, find out about holiday availability and if there are any extra fees involved.
Many agencies also have time minimums for care, which is around two to four hours. If you only need someone to help provide transportation to doctor appointments or to get groceries, be aware that you may be subject to this time minimum when it comes to payment. You may also need to decide if the caregiver needs to bring their own meals during visits or if you will provide them.
Finding the best home care provider is a big decision that may take some time. Take your time to do your research and be sure to trust your gut. Once you’ve made your decision, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your loved one will be well cared for and safe in their own home.
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