How to Find the Right Caregiver To Help With Aging Parents" Safety and Well-Being
Growing old doesn't have to be a complete burden on your parents, you and your siblings; it calls for a bit of extra help.
A caregiver can aid in eldercare on many different levels and depending on your parents' needs, his or her role can provide key benefits.
Ask for referrals from people you know and trust in the medical community (word-of-mouth recommendations are sometimes the best ones); in order to keep things simple, hiring a caregiver through a home care agency is a good option.
Select an agency that hires caregivers who pass stringent national and local background checks, a seven-year tracking and screening based on addresses and DMV records, and Social Security trace.
Their caregivers should be bonded and insured; they should be able to provide extensive references, too.
It is very important that the agency you choose provides 24/7 phone support.
A good agency will begin the hiring process by providing a free in-home assessment by a care professional.
They will determine the level of care that your parents need, discuss hourly or day rates, long-term care insurance, their recruitment and hiring practices, and how you can reach someone after regular business hours in case of emergency.
They will then recommend candidates who are suitable for your parents' case and set up an interview or two.
Your parents should be included in the interview process.
Consider the person most qualified for the job and with whom you and your parents feel most comfortable before making a final decision.
The care plan will be tailored to your parents' specific needs, but remember that your input is vital.
Your parents' caregiver will depend on you for information about your parents' condition and needs.
Make a list of what the job will entail and what your expectations are for hiring a caregiver.
Be as detailed as possible.
Be open and honest so they can arrange the best possible care; the best care depends on clear, respectful communication among members.
Write down important information the caregiver will have as a reference.
Include details on the care recipients, the home and emergency protocols.
Keep a copy in a central place in the home.
Adapt your parents' home for safety by making appropriate changes as soon as possible.
Work to develop a good relationship with the caregiver.
He or she will be your eyes and ears; and can observe and update you on areas of nutrition, hygiene, activity level, services and other daily issues.
Don't forget to create a support system -- people who live nearby who may be willing to help.
Consider friends, relatives, church or community service groups.
Be present in your parents' lives.
Write or phone regularly and visit when you can.
Caring for your parents is not only a responsibility -- it is a privilege.
Serving their needs has its own reward; you will find your family relationships enriched.
A caregiver can aid in eldercare on many different levels and depending on your parents' needs, his or her role can provide key benefits.
Ask for referrals from people you know and trust in the medical community (word-of-mouth recommendations are sometimes the best ones); in order to keep things simple, hiring a caregiver through a home care agency is a good option.
Select an agency that hires caregivers who pass stringent national and local background checks, a seven-year tracking and screening based on addresses and DMV records, and Social Security trace.
Their caregivers should be bonded and insured; they should be able to provide extensive references, too.
It is very important that the agency you choose provides 24/7 phone support.
A good agency will begin the hiring process by providing a free in-home assessment by a care professional.
They will determine the level of care that your parents need, discuss hourly or day rates, long-term care insurance, their recruitment and hiring practices, and how you can reach someone after regular business hours in case of emergency.
They will then recommend candidates who are suitable for your parents' case and set up an interview or two.
Your parents should be included in the interview process.
Consider the person most qualified for the job and with whom you and your parents feel most comfortable before making a final decision.
The care plan will be tailored to your parents' specific needs, but remember that your input is vital.
Your parents' caregiver will depend on you for information about your parents' condition and needs.
Make a list of what the job will entail and what your expectations are for hiring a caregiver.
Be as detailed as possible.
Be open and honest so they can arrange the best possible care; the best care depends on clear, respectful communication among members.
Write down important information the caregiver will have as a reference.
Include details on the care recipients, the home and emergency protocols.
Keep a copy in a central place in the home.
Adapt your parents' home for safety by making appropriate changes as soon as possible.
Work to develop a good relationship with the caregiver.
He or she will be your eyes and ears; and can observe and update you on areas of nutrition, hygiene, activity level, services and other daily issues.
Don't forget to create a support system -- people who live nearby who may be willing to help.
Consider friends, relatives, church or community service groups.
Be present in your parents' lives.
Write or phone regularly and visit when you can.
Caring for your parents is not only a responsibility -- it is a privilege.
Serving their needs has its own reward; you will find your family relationships enriched.