For elderly people living independently, certain situations may arise or needs may change that necessitate additional care. A good option for many families is to hire an in-home care agency to provide assistance for elderly individuals who continue to live independently. It can be challenging to determine the right home care agency for you, as there are many options out there. Here are 3 tips to help you choose the right elder care agency for your family: Tips for Choosing the Right Home Care Agency
Start Planning Early
It’s definitely easier to start planning ahead rather than waiting until there is a dire need for in-home care. Do your homework and research various care agencies that serve your area. Most elder care agencies will have a website that lists services, values, and more to help you determine if it would be a good fit. You can also talk to your general practitioner for recommendations or advice. Talking to your family and having a plan in place before the need arises is a good way to ensure your loved one will be cared for when the time comes.
Know Your Specific Needs
Aging is a natural process, and as a person gets older, they will naturally have a different set of needs as they did before. Some elderly individuals are fully capable of doing daily tasks/housework, cooking, and utilizing their own transportation. For those that aren’t, homemaker services are a good option. However, a person’s needs may go beyond housework and require additional assistance with things such as personal hygiene, toileting, medication management, and more; in this case, hiring a home health aide may be beneficial. Additionally, in-home licensed and registered skilled nursing can provide medical care to your loved one. It’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider to determine what services could benefit your loved one.
Research the Agency
Hiring a home care agency is an important step, and you want to ensure your loved one is getting the best service available. It’s crucial to research the agency you’re looking into hiring. Review the credentials and mission statement of the company, which will help determine if it will be a good fit for you and your family. Learn about what services are provided and how the values are brought forward in practice. You might ask a company for testimonials or research online the satisfaction of clients. The agency you choose should have your loved one’s best interest in mind and work with integrity and respect.
If you’re ready to learn more about home care in St Anthony MN, contact Pinnacle Home Care. We are proud to offer several in-home services that benefit seniors with a wide range of needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation. Watch for Part 2 of this blog series for a few more tips on choosing the right home care agency for your loved one.
