3 Questions to Ask When Hiring Senior Care Services

If you have been taking care of your elderly parent or relative, you probably understand how stressful the situation can get. You need the right expertise to handle different situations. At this point, you may be contemplating taking your loved one to an elderly home. But sometimes, home care works best! It offers numerous health benefits, since the older person will enjoy the security associated with a familiar place. Nowadays, most people prefer senior home care services, and the reasons why are apparent.

Why Consider Senior Home Care Services?

Are you seeking the best care for your senior loved one? Home care services are an option worth considering. They offer immense benefits and will improve the physical and mental well-being of your loved one. The services are often better than enrolling the older person in a clinic or nursing home. With senior care services in Alexandria, VA, the patient enjoys personalized attention and avoids the exhausting atmosphere and routine of a nursing home.

Home care services are tailored to suit the patient’s individual needs, unlike in a nursing home where providers care for different patients with varying needs. The patient enjoys excellent levels of freedom while at home, close to their family members. This strengthens bonding and expedites the healing process.

Which Questions Should I Ask When Hiring a Home Senior Caregiver?

Asking the right questions will help you locate the most suitable provider and improve your loved one’s health. Examples of questions to ask include:

1. What services do you provide?

All caregivers are different, and the services may vary. You want someone who will cater to the needs of your loved one, so determine what’s offered before hiring. Nevertheless, most agencies offer light housekeeping, transportation, medication monitoring, meal preparation, personal care, and ambulation assistance. Others like Capital City Nurses offer more specialized care, including dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Have the provider clearly state this in writing.

2. Can you schedule services to meet my needs?

Some caregiver companies have minimal shift hours and charge per shift. Others charge more over the weekends and holidays, so it’s advisable to inquire about this beforehand. Ask if the caregiver can tailor the shift hours and services to match your patient’s needs. Also, discuss the rates and agree on all the terms before engagement.

3. What are your skills & experience?

Senior caregivers possess various skills depending on the type of training undertaken. Ask about the experience levels, because your patient may require special care. This is especially true for those with special needs like Alzheimer’s. Also, ask if they work for an agency or as an individual contractor. Caregivers working with an agency are preferable. But, find out if the company conducts a background check for caregivers and if the agency is licensed and insured.

Wrapping Up

Senior home caregiving will benefit your loved one in various ways. The older person will likely heal better when in a familiar environment and close to family members. However, your choice of caregiver matters, and you should choose the right person for the job. Be sure to ask the questions mentioned above to help make informed choices.