Hiring a home health care professional to take care of your elderly parent isn’t an easy task, but it can be very worthwhile to do so. Not all service providers are the same, but many offer similar services including:
Although not required at all agencies, some of the best trained care givers serve as companions as well. If your parent is social, be sure to find a care giver that enjoys working and interacting with seniors. Not only will they encourage conversation with your parent, but they might take them out to run errands or play a game of cards or Scrabble.
Some care givers will help with meal planning making sure that your parent receives the nutrition they need in their current state. Many will also shop for groceries, prepare the food and clean up after dinner.
Of course, we all want to be with our parents when they need us, but unfortunately, most of us can’t drop everything to attend to a parent’s doctor appointment. Many care givers offer errand running as part of their service including trips to the drug store.
Medication ? Qualified home care personnel will keep track of your loved one?s medications by sorting the pills and making a log that explains which medicine gets administered at what time. This helps everyone; patients, family members and care givers, know when and what their loved one received so that the patient does not get over-medicated.
Bathing ? Home health care professionals should assist the elderly with their daily grooming activities including bathing, combing their hair and ease in and out of the bathtub. Some will even assist with make up if needed. There is one of those areas where keeping the client?s dignity is important.
Paying Bills ? Keeping on top your finances is difficult for everyone not just seniors. Some health care providers will help the patient keep their bills organized and paid in a timely manner.
Some family member’s needs are greater than others. A parent fighting with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or Dementia can take a real toll on family members. Fortunately, many care givers are qualified to care for these ailments giving the family a respite when needed.
Finally, be sure to see if the agency you want is able to provide the right nurse to do the job well regarding wound care, insulin shots and direct medication administration. Don?t settle for less when it comes to home health care. If the agency you want can?t provide what is needed, walk away.
I’m a healthcare consultant specializing in senior home care. Click here to learn more.