BY DAVE WEIMAN

For some elders, the ideal solution to diminishing physical capabilities and/or minor medical concerns, is to have caregivers come to their home. There is a growing number of organizations that are available to provide this level of care. Some Skilled Nursing Homes, who just a few short years ago were strictly focused on providing nursing and custodial care in their building, have added a home care unit to their services. It makes some sense to stay at home and be treated in familiar surroundings. And there has been recent research that supports the home care approach.

If that appears to be an option worth pursuing, here is some information that may help in making a decision about home care providers. First, understand there are two levels of care available – one medical, and one non-medical. The latter will provide care givers to cook meals, do light housekeeping, run errands and shopping, drive to appointments, and might remind the elder to take medication at the proper time. The medical home care providers may have staff to do these same tasks, but additionally they have trained medical personnel that administer medication, monitor vital signs, conduct physical and occupational therapy, assist with transfers, and manage wounds.

It is important to have a contract with the provider that details the care services and the fee associated with each. It is also critical to have written assurances that a supervisor for the care provider(s) is readily available to answer any concerns. And of course, it is important to investigate the licenses and credentials of the staff.   Longevity of service in the profession and with the organization is one indicator of competence. Confirm that background checks have been performed and bonding insurance is in force.

If an organization and staff meet all the preceding measures – licenses, certificates, bonding, background – then pre-engagement interviews should be conducted. The care providers will be ‘living’ in the elder’s home, sometimes every day. To avoid relationship issues after the care service commences, these pre-engagement interviews are essential. Some agencies balk at making their staff members available for these interviews, but many see the wisdom in the effort and find it makes economic and administrative sense.

As with any care program, a “care plan” should be developed within a few days after care service commences. The elder, family members, and home care staff should make an assessment of the resident’s current condition and a suggested 90 day care plan with expected results. At the end of that first 90 days, and each 90 day period thereafter, the plan should be reviewed, revised as necessary and extended for another 90 days.

Go to www.carecompasspeoria.org

for more suggestions and guidance for finding quality elder care.

Dave Weiman is the founder of Care Compass, a free online site to assist elders and their families find Elder Care in the Peoria area. Dave has been engaged for over 10 years in improving the quality of care, so elders can enjoy a life of quality.