There comes a time when an older person many not be in a physical state to manage their lives alone anymore. While many people are sharp in mind until very old age, the human body needs a little extra care at a certain age. This might mean a loved one can no longer drive, pick up prescriptions, or go to the post office on their own. Enlisting the services of senior home care may seem intimidating at first, since you’re allowing someone you’ve never met into your loved one’s home. However, as long as you work with the right company, it will make life easier for both you and the older adult.
1. Understanding Different Home Care Services
According to AARP, one of the biggest differences between in-home care agencies for the elderly is staff who are either medically licensed or non-licensed. Companion and helper companies offer assistance such as general companionship, assistance with errands, and homework. On the other hand, we at Capital City Nurses offer staff who possess their nursing license as one of the many prerequisites to join our team.
2. Monitoring the Situation
In order to become comfortable with a new home care aide, it can be helpful to spend some time with both your loved one and the caregiver. Go on some errands to make sure that the older adult gets along with the person who’s been assigned to them. Feel free to ask questions about their background. Although staff is thoroughly vetted, clients are the priority. It’s not unusual to feel anxious about a new person entering you and your loved one’s life, much less someone you will both be depending upon. It’s fine to go at your own pace and get to know the caregiver.
3. Ask Your Loved One for Their Opinion
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to determine if the caregiver is working out is to simply ask the senior in private. Tell them that it’s fine to be candid, and that you’re simply interested in their well being. It’s good to do this early on, since the first impression will be fresh on the person’s mind. This can also help you accept and embrace the assistance the caregiver has been sent to provide, knowing that your loved one approves.
While oftentimes older people are resistant to outside caregivers, if the situation is approached carefully and tactfully, you’ll be able to make sure that your elderly loved one is paired with a compassionate caretaker who they will trust and be able to depend on. You can also follow them on Twitter for more updates.
