If your elderly family member requires constant care at home which you are unable to provide, you may feel somewhat helpless and at a loss regarding where to turn for additional help. Choosing the right home care agency can help enhance your loved one’s life and give you added peace of mind on a daily basis. A few tips provided below can help you choose the best home care provider for your relative.
Licensure and Screenings
One of the most important qualities to look for in a potential home care agency is that the organization is licensed by the state in which the services will be performed. The state’s department of health may also be able to provide you with information from past reviews of the agency. It is also wise to choose an agency that conducts worker screenings. Nursing assistants and nurses should be thoroughly screened to make sure they are properly credentialed and qualified to do their jobs. Be sure that your elderly loved one is comfortable with the caregiver selected, as this person will be the senior citizen’s chief provider of social and physical care on a regular basis.
Registries
You may select an agency that offers a registry designed to help you locate independent caregivers, and one that will also follow up to make sure your caregiver is well-matched to caring for your loved one’s needs. The agency should also be active in arranging for substitutes in the event that gaps in care occur. Using a registry is particularly useful if your family has the necessary resources to play an active role in managing your elderly family member’s care.
Healthcare Services
If your family member’s situation is more complicated—for example, if there are major medical concerns requiring additional support in the coordination of care—a home care agency that offers healthcare services may be appropriate. Such an agency can work with your family members and medical team as necessary to make sure that your loved one receives consistent and high quality care. The right agency will help you select the service options that most effectively satisfy your elderly family member’s needs. Capital City Nurses is a leading provider of quality home care services. To learn more about this agency, visit capitalcitynurses.com
