Regardless of whether you are hiring an agency or using the services of a private caregiver, it is important to take your time and find someone who will be a good match for your loved one. It is a big responsibility and you want to get it right.
You can hire a caregiver by calling the home care agencies that serve your area or using a registry where you can interview candidates independently. Each approach has its pros and cons.
Consideration should be given to the level of assistance needed, your loved ones personality and preferences and the ability of the family to supervise the caregiver. Also, if your aging family member requires specialized care, such as bathing or meal preparation, it is best to choose a caregiver with experience in that particular type of care.
After completing your list of potential applicants, it is recommended that you set up in-person interviews with those who seem to meet the caregiving needs of your elderly loved one. You may want to ask for references and a resume as well. It is also a good idea to ask the applicant for a trial period.
Many communities have help paying for home care services through a sliding scale or through specialized funding. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or faith community to learn what options are available in your area. In addition, Medicare’s Home Health Compare can be a useful tool for researching home health agencies. how to find a caregiver for elderly