We all age. Some age gracefully and peacefully, while others face difficult physical, mental, and/or emotional issues making the aging process difficult. One thing is certain: at some point, we all need help.
Help often comes from a family member, but this can become difficult as the family attempts to balance daily responsibilities with caring for their loved one. Options such as assisted living or skilled nursing facilities are available. However, a 2021 AARP survey, “Home and Community Preferences,” found that 77 percent of adults over 50 wish to remain in their own homes for the long term1. How do we make this happen? Most of us don’t want to spend our final years in a nursing home. Home care is a great option.
Home care is a service that allows the elderly to maintain their independence while living in familiar surroundings. This service aids with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, light housekeeping, cooking, etc.) and offers emotional support and companionship. It can be more cost-effective than other options and offers flexible scheduling that can be tailored to meet the needs of the individual.
When is it time to explore home care services? You might need a little extra short-term help when your loved one: is recovering from a hospital stay or illness; if your loved one has been diagnosed with a chronic condition that affects their mobility or cognitive function, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s; when they require assistance with activities of daily living; or have difficulty completing household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or laundry. Another instance is when the family can no longer provide the care needed to adequately care for their loved one. Many feel a strong commitment to care for their loved ones, but this is often a full-time job that creates difficulties for the caregiver as they struggle to balance work, family, and caregiving.
Consider the following as you search for a reputable and high-quality provider:
1. Licensing and Insurance. They must be licensed by the State of Nevada. They should be bonded and carry the required insurance. Quality agencies will be happy to share documentation.
2. Staff Qualifications. Verify that their professional caregiver staff are trained, experienced, and have undergone background checks.
3. Caregiver Availability. Ask about the availability of caregivers and how the agency will ensure continuity of care. Will you have a regular caregiver, or will you get a different caregiver every shift?
4. Communication and monitoring. How does the agency communicate with you? Is the plan of care available for review? How will they ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being?
5. Cost and insurance coverage. Understand the cost of services and payment options. Medicare does not cover home care services; most services are private pay. However, some agencies accept long-term care insurance and VA benefits.
6. Referrals and reviews. Get referrals from friends and family and read online reviews of the company.
7. Schedule a meeting. Require an in-person visit with the agency representative and ask any questions you might have. A personalized care plan should be created to ensure that expectations are clear and that all your loved one’s needs are addressed.
It is also a good idea to consult with a doctor, geriatric care manager, or social worker for guidance on the type of care that would be appropriate for your loved one’s unique situation.
Locally, A Better Solution in Home Care focuses on providing the highest quality of professional caregiving services to individuals and families in need of assistance in the environment of their choice and would be honored to help you and your family age as gracefully and peacefully as possible.
John Mortimer, a British author, said, “The aging process is not gradual or gentle. It rushes up, pushes you over, and runs off laughing.” A Better Solution in Home Care’s goal is to provide opportunities to laugh at the experience and enjoy these golden years as much as possible.
1 https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2021/home-and-community-preferences-survey.htm