Choosing the Right Senior Home Care Provider

Senior care options Boston is a popular option for seniors who are struggling to stay in their homes but don't need around-the-clock assistance. It allows them to maintain some independence and provides peace of mind for family members who may not be able to visit them on a regular basis. It can also be less expensive than assisted living, which requires a larger financial commitment. Ultimately, however, many people find that home care isn't enough to sustain them and require more extensive or long-term care arrangements.

Before hiring a home caregiver, it's important to assess your loved one's needs. Ask about specific areas where they need help and be sure to consider whether a change in their condition will affect that need. This can help prevent surprises down the road. In addition, make sure your elderly loved one has access to transportation for doctor's appointments and other errands.

It's also a good idea to get input from your senior, as well as other family members. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but broaching the topic carefully and respecting their preferences can make it easier. Remember that a decline is often gradual, so the best time to start considering home care is before it becomes an emergency situation.

Choosing the right senior home care provider will depend on the level of medical expertise your elderly loved one needs. Some home care providers are nurses or therapists who can assist with rehabilitation and other medical issues, while others provide non-medical personal care services, such as bathing, grooming, shopping and cooking. Many states have regulations for home care agencies and some offer certification, which is important if you're using Medicare to pay for your home care services.

The most reliable senior home care is provided by a full-service agency, which usually costs more but prescreens applicants and takes care of tax and insurance issues. They can also help with emergencies by providing backup workers. Independent providers generally charge less, but they must take on the responsibility of performing background checks and securing liability insurance.

When interviewing potential caregivers, don't forget to ask about the agency's orientation and ongoing training programs. Caregivers need to be prepared for emergencies, including fire safety and what to do if someone has a stroke or cardiac episode. It's also a good idea to observe them in action, if possible, preferably unannounced.

Lastly, before starting any home care arrangement, check with your insurance agent to see if it's covered by your homeowner or renter's policy. If not, you should consider purchasing coverage to protect against accidents that injure the workers. You should also talk to your elderly loved one's physician about what kind of care they need and what their current abilities are, as these will probably fluctuate.