When the time comes to hire a caregiver for a senior loved one, families often feel overwhelmed trying to find the right person for the job. However, making the right preparations can relieve much of the stress of selecting a caregiver. Following this detailed checklist can help you stay focused on meeting your loved one’s requests and needs.
Determine the Type of Care Your Loved One Needs
Every senior has different care needs, and many Philadelphia caregivers specialize in certain fields. The services they offer can range from companionship visits to assistance with everyday tasks like bathing, cooking, and housekeeping, depending on the amount of care required. Matching the caregiver to your loved one’s needs is the first step to hiring with confidence.
Make a List of Requirements
Making a comprehensive list of the care you expect from a caregiver helps keep the search on track. This checklist can then be used as a job description to find the Philadelphia home care agency that meets these necessities. Include specific requirements in the list to help narrow the field and make your search quicker and easier.
Research Available Resources
Most areas of the country have resources available to help locate an in-home caregiver on a city, state, or federal level. The Eldercare Locater and the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging are excellent resources for people looking for caregivers. Many private agencies are good to work with but it is always advisable to check their credentials. Some families also choose to hire caregivers independent from an agency, which has a proven track record but requires extra work to ensure the caregivers are competent and trustworthy.
Factor in the Costs
The financial impact of respite or live-in care in Philadelphia is a significant part of the decision making process, and the type of care provided and the amount of time the caregiver spends with your loved one are major factors in determining the cost. Medicare and Medicaid may cover some home care expenses, and some people have long-term care insurance that helps cover the cost of a caregiver. Always check every possible avenue to help reduce the costs. Taking the time to review insurance policies may relieve some of the financial burden placed on your family.
If you are looking for an experienced, reliable, and highly trained professional to care for your loved one, turn to Home Care Assistance of Philadelphia. We are a leading provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also provide comprehensive Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke care. For more information, please call (215) 645-4663 today to speak with one of our qualified Care Managers and schedule a no-obligation consultation.