In some cases, choosing one of the many senior care agencies available has to be done quickly due to an emergency medical problem. Other people may have weeks or months to plan and research their options. When homing a loved one, it’s important to be sure that the chosen agency meets all legal requirements. But that isn’t everything you’ll need to know. Below we look at some of the most important things to consider while choosing a care agency.
Required Needs
You want to be honest about the needs of your loved one and determine if the agency can meet those needs. You might want to give an example of a typical day with the patient, in order to best provide information on what care is going to be needed. This can also give the agency insight into when and how they want to do various things, such as naps or meals.
Transportation Options
If you need someone who can take your loved one to doctor’s appointments, ensure that is possible. Find out how they will be transported, whether privately or through the use of public taxis or buses. You want to make sure you are comfortable with the mode of transportation and that your loved one will have the ability to leave when needed.
Hours Required
You’ll want to have an idea of how many hours you need care each day. The agency you choose will need to know during what hours they should be at the home, so scheduling can take place without a hitch. Think about the services your loved one will need and how many hours those things typically take up.
Management of Medication
When looking at senior care agencies, you want to be sure they are able to provide medication to your loved one. You’ll want to offer a list of medications and find a way to monitor when these are given in case of allergic reactions or side effects. Any special instructions should be provided along with the medication list.
Senior Care in Maryland
At Capital City Nurses, we offer everything from hospice support to companion care, private home care, and Alzheimer’s care. Our services include medication management and skilled nurses to provide convenience and value. If you are researching senior care agencies, we’d be happy to offer any information you need. You can reach us at 866-807-7307.
