Finding the right home care agency does not have to be a tumultuous task. In fact, with an intricate research and knowledge – you should be able to find the right provider for your elderly relative or home-bound parent. As our elders age, we must be able to offer them the best care, love, and emotional support during their golden years. Whether for terminally ill patients in hospices or loved ones that can no longer fend for themselves – home care agencies and nurses are committed to excellence in providing optimal comfort and taking care of the daily needs of seniors.
What to Look For in a Home Care Agency?
According to industry experts, nearly 57% of families seek home care agency assistance each year. These numbers, however, are slated to increase in 2017 – especially with the rise of healthcare and insurance costs. When it comes to securing the right agency, there are several aspects you must keep in mind. The following tips and suggestions are designed to help you and your loved ones make a worthwhile and informed decision – especially during these trying and emotional times:
- Home care agencies must accept a full range of insurance plans and carriers. This include personal and private insurance, along with HMO, PPO, and especially Medicare and Medicaid.
- Home care agency caregivers must have spotless professional reputations – this includes years of extensive industry experience in senior home care.
- Nurses and caregivers must have also passed a range of stringent requirements to work within any particular state or region. Make sure to ask for their references and credentials – even if they are employed by the agency or a contractor.
- Caregivers must be professional across the board – this includes personable, patient, caring, loving, and offer emotional support for their patients and family members.
- Agencies must offer flexible day or night-care hours – all caretakers should have their own transportation – and must be able to facilitate all patient and family requests within reason and a professional manner.
At times, cargivers may switch shifts due to scheduling conflicts. This means that a new caregiver will be sent over to care for your elderly patient or senior.
Complete Home Care Services
When opting for a home care agency, you must pay close attention to the services they offer. In fact, validating their services is of paramount importance –since most family members rely on caregivers to perform a range of errands and chores. This can include monitoring the patient or elderly relative, along with helping them groom and clean themselves. Caregivers are also required to changed sheets, make the beds, and even purchase groceries for the patient if needed.
While not all agencies perform these tasks, it is something to consider when it comes to finding the right provider for your senior loved one. No matter which agency you select, conducting adequate research is simply vital and can truly save time and money.