5 Steps to Finding the Right In-Home Care Provider
As we get older, it is only natural that we will need help with some things that we used to be able to do by ourselves. Some seniors will move into a nursing home so they can have around the clock care. However, most seniors prefer to stay in their homes as they age. The benefit of living at home in old age is a continued sense of freedom and comfort. The home we live in is often filled with memories and items that are personal to our life journeys. For this reason, in-home care services are often the best choice when help is needed. We’ll walk through some steps you should consider when looking for an in-home care provider.
Consult Doctors, Family, and Friends
The first step you should take is reaching out to the people close to you or the loved one that you are looking to find in-home care for. It is important to get honest feedback about the type of care that is needed. Your doctor will know precisely what type of medical related assistance is required. Also family members will likely interact with in-home caregivers so it is good for them to have a say in the process of choosing the best provider.
Think About Your In-Home Care Needs
Before you start looking at in-home care agencies, think about all the tasks that will require help and how often you’ll need help with those tasks. You’ll want to bring these up during an initial conversation. Some things to consider might be:
- Personal hygiene and grooming
- Bathing and showering
- Getting dressed
- Meal preparation
- Mobility assistance
These are just basic things you might want to ask about. Everyone will have different needs so think about things that are specific to you or your loved one.
Figure Out a Budget
Knowing how much you can afford to pay before meeting with a bunch of different in-home care agencies can save you a lot of time. You’ll be able to tell immediately if an agency is out of your budget range and you can spend that time looking for more affordable care options.
Meet and Interview In-Home Care Agencies
Once you’ve done the research and found a handful of agencies you think might be a good fit, you’ll want to meet and ask questions and make sure what they provide is a match with what you’re looking for. Prepare questions in advance and make sure you know what you hope to hear in return. Don’t settle for a sub-par agency.
Choose the Provider That Fits Your Needs
The caregiver relationship is not based solely on proper execution of tasks and chores, but also companionship and trust. Caregivers will be spending a significant amount of time with a senior who is choosing to stay in their home, and for this reason you need to be sure to make the right choice. Most caregivers are naturally warm and caring so that shouldn’t be a major worry but you also want to make sure they are compatible with your loved ones personality and habits.
For more information on choosing the right in home care provider, visit the National Association for Home Care & Hospice website.