Questions When Choosing Eldercare

By Kristana Jenson


At a certain point in our adult lives, many of us need a little bit of help managing a variety of day-to-day tasks. For some people, this is simply a matter of needing extra help with cooking and cleaning. For others, it is necessary to have someone assist them with daily grooming and bathing chores. Some people also are dealing with memory loss and dementia and while in excellent health otherwise, need help remember to take medicines, eat healthy daily meals or simply need to in a safe and secure setting.

Some seniors or their loved ones begin looking at different eldercare choices when there are issues with daily care. This includes looking at anything from having in-home care to finding an assisted living home or a skilled nursing facility depending on the level of care that is needed. Choosing a facility or caregiver is not an easy process and it's important that you ask eldercare professionals some important questions prior to making your final decision.

One of the first things to ask about is the level of experience and training of the staff or in-home caregiver. You also need to ask for references, and it's a good idea to ask about licensing as well. Ask about what happens if there is a medical emergency and what level of staffing is on site at any time, day or night. You can also ask whether or not staff members have to undergo routine drug testing and if background checks are done on each employee. It is also wise to check with your Department of Health to ensure that the facility has any serious violations. If your caregiver or facility will be providing memory care, ask about security measures for those adults.

Your budget often dictates what type of care option you will be able to select, and once you have established a budget and found people and facilities that match that monthly budget, you need to ask about what is included in this fee. For instance, ask about meal services, laundry and housekeeping. Most facilities will provide three meals per day, but some only provide weekly housekeeping and some places will provide laundry services for an additional fee. Your in-home caregiver might help with meals, shopping and daily grooming, but not housekeeping or laundry, it all depends. So ask and take notes about everything that is included. Also ask about the fun amenities, such as social events, exercise classes, swimming pools, shuttle services and other activities.

To select the best location or person, ask for recommendations from friends and perhaps a trusted doctor or nurse. An eldercare placement company, such as Care Placement, also can provide a list of caregivers that have been pre-screened and are located in your area. You simply fill out a questionnaire detailing the level of care you need and your budget and Care Placement will look for assisted living, care homes, skilled nursing facilities and in-home services that might fit your needs.

Of course, your first impressions of the staff, caregivers and facilities are often what help you make a good decision. With an in-home person, a sense of caring and enthusiasm are always positive along with a solid resume and references. Ask the caregiver why they have chosen the profession and what level of care they have provided for others. At an eldercare facility or board & care home check out the way the staff engages with residents as well as potential residents. Also see if the residents seem busy and happy and the decor is pleasing. Take a thorough tour and make note of any place that seems in ill repair or unclean.




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