One of the biggest worries of adult children creating senior care plans for their elderly care parents is ensuring that their parents receive the level of care they need at all times even when those adult children are not able to directly provide the care. If you are concerned that you are not capable of giving your parents the physical, emotional, or medical care they need so they can live the quality of life they deserve because you live at a distance or are busy with your career and taking care of your children, get in touch with your local elder care agency to discuss hiring a home care provider. This care provider can become a part of your elder care team, supplementing the care you provide and acting as a resource for you and your elderly parents.
When it comes to getting home care for your aging parents it is important to consider that all seniors are different and their care goals are unique to their specific needs. In-home health care services providers offer completely customizable care that ensures your parents get the care they need while still encouraging them to maintain as much independence as possible. This means you must take the time to create a schedule that incorporates your care responsibilities with shifts for the care provider or providers.
Use these tips to help you plan your schedule and ensure your elderly parents get the best care:
• Draft your schedule early. Try to come up with a preliminary schedule before you even contact the care agency. Knowing how much care your parents need and when they need it helps you clarify your expectations and gives the care agency the information they need to select the right home care provider for your parents.
• Consider overnight care. Home care providers are not just for assistance with activities of daily living during the day. Many seniors have care needs at night which could mean you lose sleep trying to help them. Even if your parents have transitioned into living in your home and you are home at night, taking care of your other obligations during the day means getting the sleep you need. Professional caregivers are there when you need them so you can have peace of mind that your parents are properly protected and cared for and that you can rest.
• Forget about minimum myths. Some people believe that your parents must need care every day or that they have to require several hours of care at a time in order to qualify for home care. The reality is that this type of care is available for a full range of care needs, from seniors who need care 24 hours a day to those who only need a couple of hours of assistance a few times per week. You determine when and for how long your parents need care and the care provider meets those needs.
• Be flexible. If you are just getting started with a home care relationship you may find that the schedule you originally drafted does not actually meet your parents’ needs. Be willing to evaluate your schedule after a couple of weeks and make adjustments that work for everybody.
• Make contingency plans. Care providers get sick and have emergencies, which could mean they are not able to get to their shift with your parents. Meet with several care providers to find ones you trust as backup plans so your parents are never left without the care they need.
If you have an aging loved one and are considering home health care services, contact Interim HealthCare today
