4 Things to Look for in an In-Home Caregiver

Staying home is a high priority for many people in their retirement years. The desire is to “age in place” by remaining in their home instead of moving into a facility.

Eventually, aging reaches a point where the person needs additional support with daily activities. Of course, family members can offer support, but there are times when it makes sense to hire an in-home caregiver.

When choosing a provider, it’s essential to find a caregiver who is the right fit for the person and the family. This caregiver will be part of the day-to-day life, which is why you need to be cautious about who you are inviting into the home.

Here are a few critical points to consider when choosing an in-home caregiver:

1. Background Checks

Does the agency run full background checks on all the care providers? Make sure the company is completing a thorough evaluation of every employee. Previous history with dangerous activities could be putting your loved one at risk.

2. Credentials & Experience

Your loved one requires skilled care, so you need to ensure that the providers bring the right experience and credentials to the job. If you are hiring an in-home healthcare worker, check to be sure the person has nursing credentials and proper training to assist with the medical services needed.

Depending on the level of care required, it might be acceptable to have workers with fewer skills. For example, if the agency provides in-home care (such as cleaning, meal preparation, or companionship), different criteria are necessary compared to a provider offering medical support.

3. Consistency of Care

When you have someone come into the home every day, it’s helpful to ensure continuity in the provider coming to the house. Of course, staffing adjustments need to be made at times. But prioritize an agency that assigns specific workers for your loved one. That way, the patient can build a relationship and feel more comfortable with the people who are providing the care.

4. Personalized Support

Every patient is unique, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach for in-home care. If you or a loved one needs these services, talk to our professional team at Bonita Springs Healthcare Services. We’ll design a custom plan to honor your needs and requests.