As our loved ones age, ensuring they receive the care they need becomes a top priority. Home care services can provide seniors with the support and companionship they need to thrive while allowing them to remain in the comfort of their own homes. However, selecting the right home care company can be an overwhelming process. Here are some tips to guide families as they navigate this important decision.
Before we dive in, its important to understand the key differences in available home care options. There are typically two terms used when describing home care – home health care and home care. Home health care refers to skilled or medical care provided by professional individuals such as nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, in the home. Usually, seniors will receive this type of care after a surgery or hospitalization and are typically temporary and covered by Medicare and traditional health insurance. Home care refers to non-skilled or non-medical care which includes ADL (activities of daily living) assistance. Things we all do all day, every day, but get harder with age or any kind of illness. This type of care is traditionally private pay and can be temporary or long-term.
Assess Your Loved One’s Needs
Before you begin your search, take time to evaluate what kind of care your loved one requires. Do they need assistance with personal care like bathing and dressing, or help with household tasks like cooking and laundry? Are there medical needs or memory care concerns to consider? Colorado and many other states separate home care companies by the ‘level’ of care the caregivers provide. Understanding their specific needs will help you identify the correct type of company that offers the level of care your loved one needs.
Research Local Companies
Look for home care providers in your area with a strong reputation for quality care. Ask friends, neighbors, or healthcare professionals for recommendations. Additionally, online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight into a company’s reliability and client satisfaction.
Clarify the screening process
Ensure the company conducts a thorough screening of all caregivers, but don’t stop there—ask for details about their screening process. The depth of a background check can vary significantly between companies. While some may only meet the state’s minimum requirements to cut costs, others go above and beyond to uphold a higher standard of care for their clients. Choose a company whose screening process makes you feel entirely comfortable.
Inquire About Services Offered
Not all home care agencies provide the same level of service. Choose an agency that not only provides the services your loved one needs but can also accommodate the amount of care you’re planning to arrange. Be sure to ask what the agency’s shift minimum is (4 hours is fairly typical minimum, although some agencies have shorter minimums), as well as the weekly minimum.
Common services include but are not limited to:
- Personal care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
- Meal preparation and light housekeeping
- Medication reminders
- Transportation to appointments
- Companionship
- Understand Costs and Billing
Home care services can vary in cost, so it’s essential to have a clear understanding of pricing. Typically, a home care company will have an hourly rate for care. Always ask if rates change on weekends or holidays and how the company handles rate adjustments and increases. Ask about the company’s billing policy, whether they work with long term care insurance companies and if they accept credit cards as a form of payment.
- Ask About Communication Practices
A good home care agency will maintain open communication with family members. Ask how they provide updates on your loved one’s care and how they handle emergencies.
- Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off about a company or caregiver, it’s okay to keep searching. You want to feel confident that your loved one will be safe, comfortable, and well cared for.
How Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Can Help
At Elderlink Home Care, Inc., we understand how important it is to find the right care for your loved one. For over 36 years, we’ve been providing compassionate, reliable, and professional non-medical home care services to families in Denver, CO. Experienced caregivers are carefully screened and selected to offer personalized support that meets the unique needs of every client.
If you’re seeking home care for a senior in your life, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family. 303-734-0641