Your Ultimate Guide to Finding a Dependable Primary Caregiver for Elderly Parents

Need help caring for an aging parent at home? Are you worried about your current job’s mounting responsibilities or feel that a full-time caregiver might be out of reach financially?

If so, this post is for you. We’re going to take a look at some of the best options for finding a dependable primary caregiver for elderly parents that will take care of your loved one with love and compassion.

Benefits of Having a Dependable Primary Caregiver

• Free to you

Most caregivers are independent contractors, so they work on a contract basis, which means that their hours can be flexible, and they may take whatever shifts work for the best. (If the care your loved one needs is not covered by insurance, you will be responsible for paying the caregiver.) It gives them more time with their own families and greater financial freedom.

• Confidence in the caregiver

When you hire a caregiver to care for your loved one, you can rest assured that s/he will be there when you need her/him, and will be reliable, willing to work late nights or Saturdays, and won’t skip out on a job without giving you a heads up.

• Reduced Stress

When you have a dependable caregiver, you won’t have to worry about work deadlines or business travel. You will be able to trust that your loved one is being cared for by someone who loves him/her and will always put his/her needs first.

• Time for yourself

Even when you hire someone who is part of a more major caregiving agency, the caregiver may be allowed to work online from home, which will enable you to take time off from your demanding job or hobby pursuits. It will allow you more time with your aging parents and give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are well cared for.

• Increased independence

Finding a dependable caregiver for an aging parent at home can give them the freedom to engage in their favorite activities, such as volunteering at the hospital, attending church or community events, and shopping for groceries. Without a caretaker to help them get around and do the things they enjoy, they may be forced to give up some of these activities altogether.

• A trusted confidant

When your loved one goes home with a caregiver, s/he has an extra set of trusted eyes and ears. The caregiver can help you make sure your parent is eating correctly, making appointments, getting enough exercise, and doing those other vital things to maintain their quality of life.

Guide to Finding a Dependable Primary Caregiver for Elderly Parents

1. Ask for a reference

If you’re considering using someone who is part of a more major caregiving agency, ask to talk to a current client. It will give you valuable insight into what you can expect. However, be sure that the person you speak with is someone who has hired the caregiver to take care of your loved one, not just another staff member.

2. Talk to the caregiver

Be sure to meet in person with any potential caregivers before hiring them. Ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable with the answers. Don’t be afraid to be direct, and don’t feel that you need to hold anything back. The last thing you want is for a caregiver to take advantage of your parent or try to hide something from you once they have started working.

3. Consider insurance benefits

If your aging parent is covered by health insurance, check the policy’s benefit coverage carefully and ask about any potential costs before hiring a caregiver. Some caregiving agencies may require the client to pay a daily administration fee or for other services. Your parent should not be responsible for any of these fees, which is why you need to make sure the benefits coverage includes everything they need.

4. Get everything in writing

Even if you hire someone from a more major caregiving agency, get everything in writing before the caregiver starts work with your loved one. Include the caregiver’s pay rate, how often he/she will come, and an itemized list of expected services. If possible, include a sample of previously completed work to help you understand the caliber of care your loved one will receive.

5. Consider hiring scattered caregivers

Not every problematic caregiving situation requires a full-time caregiver. If none of the options we described in this post are feasible for you, consider hiring a scattered caregiver who can help with your loved one’s activities on a part-time basis.

6. Consider a live-in caregiver

If you can’t find a person to take care of your aging parent full-time, or if you know they won’t be able to manage alone for long, then a live-in caregiver who lives in the same house with your loved one may be the best option.

7. Consider hiring a part-time caregiver

If your loved one is not currently participating in daycare, then consider hiring an aide to help out during the day. This type of arrangement may be appropriate for many older adults who love to walk and exercise, and efficiently manage their daily activities.

8. Consider hiring a customized caregiver

Once you have narrowed down the options for your loved one’s care, consider hiring a customized caregiver who can complement your loved one’s abilities and needs.

9. Consider using the services of a professional Aging Caregiver Agency

If you couldn’t find a high-quality caregiver for your aging parent through our tips, please consider contacting us at our trusted service provider, Serenity Senior Care. We offer a wide range of caregiving services in the comfort of your own home in Bloomfield, New Jersey. To learn more, please call us at  973-338-0124 or visit our website at www.serenity-senior-care.com

10. Assess the situation often

As your loved one ages, there may be some changes in their condition that require you to reassess where they are and what type of care they will need. Don’t be afraid to ask for a reevaluation of their care plan, especially if they show signs of memory loss or other symptoms.

We hope our tips will help you find the best caregiver for your parent! Remember: the caregiver’s presence is not only about their ability to take care of your parent’s personal needs; it also helps them to maintain their dignity and independence. It is an important decision, so consider all options and do what is best for your loved one!