What to Look for in Live-In Care Services
April 22, 2024
When searching for senior home care, patients and caregivers alike can experience a variety of complex emotions. Caregivers want to know that their family members are in good hands, and that their loved one’s wishes are being respected.
While communication with a caretaker is an ongoing process, here are some initial questions worth asking right away so that your senior receives the most compassionate, dedicated care possible.
How Are Your Caregivers Trained and Vetted?
Trustworthy home care companies will be transparent about how they train and vet their employees. Home care aides with prior experience and who have undergone a rigorous background check are indications of a good senior care company. Additionally, the company should be fully licensed, bonded and insured.
Here in Minnesota, regulatory standards around caregivers are high. Aides should be trained in personal care and household support. They also need to be trained to their patients’ specific illness – an aide working with an Alzheimer’s patient, for example, will need to be trained in dementia care.
How Hands-On Are Home Health Aides?
The best senior home care is tailored to each individual’s needs. Some homes may require more help with personal care, while others may need more intensive meal prep or walking assistance. It’s important to find a provider who truly listens to your needs and is willing to go the extra mile to be of service.
Does This Organization Provide 24/7 Care?
Round-the-clock care is not a given with home care companies, but medical emergencies don’t wait for business hours. It can also be difficult to help a senior’s life feel structured when they are not receiving round-the-clock care. That’s why the best home care option tends to be 24/7 support from live-in caregivers.
How Can I Be Sure That My Caregiver is Doing a Good Job?
Unlike nursing facilities, home care enables more regular visits with your family member. Additionally, Quality Assurance Supervisors are responsible for making “unannounced” visits to clients’ homes and monitoring health aides. They keep in regular contact and make suggestions for improvement so that patients can keep living their best lives.
How Do I Know I’m Choosing the Best Caregiver for My Loved One’s Needs?
A reputable home care company will never assign a caregiver to a senior randomly. They will make an effort to match the right aides to your loved one, working with you to ensure that a personal care plan and thoughtful match are made. After all, factors like personality, schedule and health needs are all important factors when it comes to finding the right help.
Find Answers to Your Questions.
At Home Care Solutions, we are known for our tradition of excellence. We provide 24/7 care, train and vet our home health aides and provide personalized attention so that your family member can live a happy and healthy life. Our Quality Assurance specialists offer additional insight and ensure that we continue to provide great care. Connect with us today to learn more about home care. If we aren’t the right fit for you, we will help you find who is.
