Are you considering personal care services for yourself or someone you love? It is crucial that you find the home health agency that can match you with the best caregiver. However, in order for the process to be successful, you must ask the right questions.
Consider the Needs
Once you have decided that you want a caregiver to come into your home or the home of your loved one, you should have an idea of the type of personal care services needed in the home. You should be clear about the services the caregiver must provide.
If you or your loved one is not able to prepare healthy meals, you may want to hire a caregiver who can cook meals based on dietary needs and restrictions.
Those who live alone often become depressed. Clients who simply need companionship can be matched with companions who can provide conversation regularly while also monitoring the person’s health and well-being.
As people age, their ability to maintain their residence as they once did often declines. If housekeeping services are needed in the home, let the agency know that you require a professional who can dust, mop, vacuum and complete other household chores in the home.
The frequency of the services should also be addressed. Do you or your loved one need someone in the home every day, or is once a week enough?
After you have decided on all the services that are required, contact a reputable agency. Find out more about the agency and be sure that you understand your state’s laws and regulations for personal care services.
Questions To Ask the Agency/Caregiver
Before you decide to use the services of an agency or a caregiver, conduct interviews to help you make your final decision. Some of the questions you may want to ask are:
- Is the agency and caregiver insured?
- How many years has the agency been in business?
- Are references available?
- Do caregivers have the correct qualifications and training?
- Does the agency offer flexible scheduling for care?
Be sure to get all agreements for personal care services in writing. However, before you sign anything, take the time to find out if the caregiver is compatible with the person receiving the care. If so, you can rest easy knowing that the senior can live with autonomy and dignity while staying at home.
To learn more about personal care services, contact one of our qualified staff members. You can request a free assessment from Evergreen Private Care Referral Services.