When it comes to loved ones, it’s essential to hire someone you trust

Did you know that by the year 2010 half of the population in our area will be over the age of 60? As an increasing number of the population is living well past the age of 70, 80 and even 90, finding the proper care for an aging parent or spouse has become a common issue. Ailing or frail seniors often need extra assistance and usually wish to remain in the familiar surroundings of their own home as opposed to moving to a facility.

Caregivers face some tough questions when making this decision.
What services can be provided?
What are the issues to be considered when choosing an in-home service agency?
Who can provide the quality of care that my loved one deserves?

Most in-home service agencies usually offer a variety of homemaker services such as light housekeeping, meal preparation, and running errands as well as personal care assistance with personal hygiene such as bathing, dressing and toileting.

When putting your senior loved one in the hands of someone else, the agency of choice must not only be able to provide the services needed, but also be reputable and trustworthy. To be confident that quality service from caring aides will be provided, it is imperative to consider the five key elements of choosing an agency: Safety, Compassion, Experience, Flexibility and Reliability.

Safety
Make sure that periodic criminal background checks are required for all aides prior to employment. You will feel much more at ease knowing that your loved one is receiving care from someone who is trustworthy and who has been through an extensive background check. Once you begin your research, you will be amazed at how many agencies don’t require this very important component. Also, check to ensure that proper training such as CPR and first aid are required and inquire whether checking the State Elder Abuse Registry is part of each aide’s background review. In addition, make sure the agency is licensed. This ensures the agency is adhering to recommended state regulations.

Compassion
No matter how many safety policies are implemented by an agency, quality of care will suffer if the administering aides do not show compassion to their senior clients. Seniors deserve to receive care from someone who is kind, respectful, understanding and knowledgeable of their special needs. Although this is a very subjective attribute, interviewing several present and past clients will give you the information you need.

Experience
Ask how long the agency has been in business. Experience is a necessary quality and an agency’s proven record will put you at ease when making your decision to use their services. Also, consider the turnover rate of the aides on staff. An agency that has a revolving door of in-home service aides may have some internal issues that may affect the level of service you receive.

Flexibility
It is important to inquire about the range of services the agency will provide, and if you need individualized service, inquire whether the agency will be flexible to meet your special needs.
Also ask how quickly you can receive services. Many agencies have a long waiting list, which can be frustrating to someone who needs help immediately.
We never know when an aging parent may suddenly need extra help during the day and relying on a reputable agency with compassionate aides can be a welcome relief.
A related question to ask is if there are a minimum number of hours per visit and the cost associated with this requirement. Some agencies require a minimum of up to six hours per day and clients must pay for them even if they don’t use them. Others have a much lower minimum requirement.
Research and find the agencies that will work with you on this issue — your checkbook will appreciate it!

Reliability
Speaking of your checkbook, find out the cancellation policy when investigating various agencies. You should not be charged if you cancel services within 24 hours. On the other hand, if the aide who is assigned to provide your senior loved one care can’t make it that day, the agency should be able to send a replacement without interruption of service. Aides should also have a reputation for being punctual and courteous.

After you’ve carefully researched all of the above considerations, check the agency’s references by talking with other clients who have received their in-home services. If the feedback that you receive includes glowing remarks about their experience, dependability, flexibility, reliability, and compassion — you know your loved one will be in good hands.

For more information, contact Kate Adams at Aging Excellence.