When an older adult has a chronic illness or is recovering from an injury or surgery, such as a knee or hip replacement, they may need some help to continue living comfortably in their home. While family caregivers may be able to assist with much of the care, they often cannot devote as much time and energy as the senior needs because of work, children, and other responsibilities.
Fortunately, there is a way to get your aging relative all the help they need through an elderly care agency. Elderly care agencies have a staff of employees who can be scheduled to spend as much time as needed with your older family member, ensuring they have the help they need. Of course, you want to make sure the elderly care agency you choose for your loved one is going to provide them with the very best care possible and be easy to work with.
To find out, you’ll want to ask the questions that get you the information you need. Below are some suggestions for questions to ask and why they are important.
What kinds of services does the elderly care agency provide?
Before contacting an elderly care agency, it can be helpful to write down the things the senior requires help with. One thing that is important to know is that elderly care agencies provide only non-medical services. Once you’ve determined the kinds of things the older adult needs help with, ask if the staff members can do them. You may be surprised at the wide range of services elder care can provide, such as cooking, cleaning, transportation, and companionship.
How are employees screened?
This question is important because you want to know that the elderly care agency has carefully screened their employees for their skills and experiences as well as for safety. The elderly care agency should conduct a thorough background check on all their employees. In addition, find out if the agency itself is licensed by the state. Most states require that agencies be licensed and have regular reviews. The state health department can tell you whether agencies in the state must be licensed.
How does the elderly care agency charge for its services and how is billing and payment handled?
Of course, you need to know how much you can expect to pay for elderly care services. Find out what the agency charges per hour. Ask if they require a minimum number of hours per week and if you pay for travel time. Also, ask how they bill. Do they send a bill each week, every two weeks, or once a month? You’ll also want to know if you can pay online and what the timeframe is for paying the bill.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/home-care-services/art-20044609
https://assets.aarp.org/external_sites/caregiving/checklists/checklist_inHomeCare.html
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elderly Care Services in Medfield MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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