Before deciding on home care, you considered all the options, weighing the benefits of a care facility vs. companion care. Now, you’re faced with yet another decision: which home care agency to choose?
Selecting the right home care agency will enhance your loved one’s quality of life—and your own. This step-by-step guide will help you narrow down your choices and select the best option for your family.
Look at client testimonials and reputation.
A reputable agency will provide client testimonials or referrals. Local senior centers may have recommendations. Connecting with other patrons of such facilities might lead to word-of-mouth referrals, too.
Ensure the agency is licensed and conducts thorough background checks on caregivers. Look at the length of time it’s been in business in your area as well.
Consider the mix of services offered.
Clearly outline your loved one’s needs so you can make sure the agency can meet them. Create a checklist of key tasks the caregiver will need to handle. Highlight any specialized care needs, like overnight or couples care. Also consider personal care needs and household chores that your loved one requires assistance with, such as meal prep, laundry, and transportation.
Highlight socialization needs too, along with your loved one’s interests. For instance, would your loved one enjoy cooking, gardening, or playing games with a caregiver?
Ask about protocols for responding to changes in needs as well. How adaptable are they? Are support staff on call to handle client concerns or emerging situations?
Get a sense of whether a prospective home care agency strives to provide customized services. Do they create a personalized care plan and follow it consistently to maintain continuity of care? Asking questions on such topics will help you better understand their level of commitment to providing tailored support.
Make sure you’re satisfied with the agency’s caregivers.
Ensure the agency can match you with a caregiver who is a good fit. Prepare a list of questions for prospective caregivers. Here are a few good ones:
- “If a client gets stressed, how do you respond? Can you share an example?”
- “What experience do you have in working with seniors living with dementia?”
- “How do you put your clients at ease?”
Ensure that caregivers receive first aid and CPR certification as part of their training, too. And ask about whether caregivers receive ongoing training on topics like memory care.
As you prepare for elder care, also get the home ready by working to eliminate fall risks and other hazards. For instance, remove clutter, clean out the fridge, and replace bulky throw rugs with low-profile, non-slip options. By staying attuned to your loved one’s changing needs, you’ll help ensure their safety.
Learn more about how to choose the right home care agency for your loved one by scheduling a free nurse consultation call. A skilled professional will be happy to discuss how personalized elder care can benefit your family.
