Hiring a home caregiver can be an affordable and practical alternative to placing your elderly loved one in a nursing home or other care facility, and it also means the individual retains some independence. Home care allows seniors to receive constant care and assistance in the comfort of their own home and takes the often difficult and time-consuming responsibility of the care away from family members.

Live Care In The Home

A live in-home caregiver typically lives in the home for several consecutive days, and provides care around the clock, or as needed. It’s important to choose a caregiver who can provide support and companionship, as well as the best possible care, and of course you want to hire someone having the necessary experience and qualifications.

Home Care By The Hour

If your loved one needs only occasional assistance and attention or needs help at certain times of the day, employing a caregiver by the hour probably makes more sense. This type of care as needed allows seniors to thrive and be comfortable in a familiar environment, maintain many of their routines, and to still keep a large degree of independence.

The care and support provided by an hourly caregiver is of the same quality as that of a live-in caregiver, and again you should hire someone with experience, and someone who can provide companionship and emotional support too.

Care Outside the Home

Caregivers can go with your loved one on vacation, and can help them with the hospital admissions process as needed. When looking for a suitable home care agency, keep the following tips in mind:

* Make sure you screen applicants as best you can, if possible meeting with them in person at the agency, and talking to the agency management team.

* Don’t pay the agency in advance, although you should discuss payment and a work schedule, and pay the agency rather than the caregiver directly. Insurance also needs to be verified.

* Ask for at least several references and make sure you contact them. Only work with an agency in which the caregivers have received the applicable training and licensing, as well as a drug test and background check.

Some questions you should ask a home care agency:

* Who licenses your agency and are the employees screened thoroughly?

* Are employees adequately trained to meet the needs of our family, and can you assure a compatible fit?

* Are your caregivers independent contractors or actual employees?

* Are employees bonded, and does your company possess any special industry accreditation?

* How much do your services cost, and do you need a minimum length of time commitment and / or a deposit?

* How are the caregivers supervised and what is your policy on emergency coverage?

* Do your home caregivers provide basic housekeeping, meal preparation and provide transportation?

Always do your homework and be as thorough as possible when looking for a reliable home caregiver who will be responsible for caring for your elderly loved one. This will ensure not only the highest possible level of care, but a mutually rewarding relationship and peace of mind on your part.