By Nanette Wiser
For most seniors, continuing to live in their home for as long as possible can be a struggle. Sometimes, a family member or friend isn’t available or needs respite in caregiving. Shared housing and assisted living are one option, but finding a good caregiver, visiting nurse or agency to help with independent living at home may be the answer. Many seniors and their families see the benefits of hiring a caregiver who can help them stay safely and comfortably in their homes.
According to AARP’s “Home and Community Preferences” survey, 3 out of 4 adults 50+ want to stay in their homes and communities as they age. And many do live in their own home, in someone else’s home or in their caregiver’s home. In preparing for your aging parent and bringing in a caregiver, you may need to make some home modifications. Here are some tips for choosing a caregiver. Learn more www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care.
Assess what your parent needs. Is it home health care (physical therapy, medication management), personal care (bathing, dressing, bathroom, meal prep), house cleaning/maintenance, errands, driving or a companion for activities? It’s best to keep the bill paying and money management with a trusted family member who has the parent’s POA.
Write a job description that includes days and hours, level of health care training (HNA, CNA, Licensed Practical Nurse, Registered Nurse), ability to lift or operate special equipment and a list of duties that also includes unacceptable behaviors (smoking, tardiness, rudeness) and wages.
Ask doctors, colleagues, friends, pastors and neighbors for an agency referral or prospective caregiver. Research the agency or individual, ask for references and get a criminal background check. Prepare a list of questions and ask a friend or another family member to sit in on the interview. Be sure the person has experience with your parent’s issues, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Once you’ve identified the right person, involve your parent in the final decision to make sure it’s a good fit for them. Look for someone experienced, patient, compassionate, attentive, dependable, trustworthy and a good communicator. And only hire a licensed, bonded caregiver.
Once you’ve decided, you’ll prepare an action care plan with the agency or caregiver that details all duties to be performed, set the wages and payment schedule and sign a contract. It’s important to monitor the caregiver’s services by calling/texting or making regular home visits. You can also hire an independent geriatric care manager to do this for you. Be sure to have a back-up plan if your caregiver doesn’t work out.