We all want the best for our aging parents, relatives, and loved ones. Why is it so hard to decide when and how to bring in help? While we want loved ones to remain independent in their own home, it’s often a fact of life they need help to do so.
Most seniors and their loved ones decide that in-home care from an agency offers a way for them to stay independent, in their own home, and involved in their community for as long as possible. Not only is this a comfort for loved ones, but it’s a powerful part of their personal identity. Home, and the many personal items therein, provide a measure of comfort and stability to those at the far end of life’s journey.
Regardless of how independent and capable your loved one was for years, there comes a time when they need help. Most seniors don’t want to be a burden to their loved ones, and in-home help can meet everyone’s needs.
An aged parent or loved one can stay independent in their own home, while those who love them can rest assured that they’re getting the support and help they need to stay safe and healthy. Sometimes it’s easier for those needing help to seek it from outside sources than it is to ask family for help.
Turn to in-home agencies to find the exact help you need, when and where you need it.
What to look for in in-home agencies
Choose an in-home agency who meets the following qualifications and traits:
- Are they regulated or certified by the government to provide care services to those who need it? You want to find an agency that provides home care services for individuals just like your loved one.
- Is it clear what government funding is available for care and what out-of-pocket expenses you must pay?
- Does the agency offer the particular service your loved one needs? For example, do they offer meal preparation, house cleaning, and transportation to community activities? Determine what are the most important service offerings and then find an in-home agency that provides all.
- Can the agency provide any special needs your loved one requires? For example, if your loved one needs physical therapy, on-site nursing care, or other types of therapy, can this in-home agency provide those?
- Does the in-home care agency help you create a care plan that incorporates all of your loved one’s needs into a single plan of attack? Can the agency provide the resources and tools to help you loved one achieve their care plan?
- Does the in-home care agency include you and your family in their care plan? Specifically, if you want to be more involved in your loved one’s care, does the agency provide a way for you to be included?
- Does the care agency have supervisors whose job it is to manage each patient’s care plan to ensure that needs are being met and health and vitality are being supported to the best of their abilities?
Final thoughts
One of the most important steps when deciding about care for your loved one is checking references. Get names and phone numbers of current or past patients and spend some time talking with them about their experiences. Another avenue to check is a physician who’ve worked closely with the agency to provide care for patients. If physicians frequently refer their patients to an in-home agency, then that agency is doing something right.
If you’re uncertain about the best scenario for your loved one, contact My Guardian at 1800 694 827. We’ll walk through all your options and help you choose the one that best meet your preferences and your budget.
