When it comes to your health, or that of a close family member or friend, you of course want to trust it to trained professionals. If you recently suffered a condition or illness requiring the services of a caregiver, you may not be sure where to turn in order to finding the right help. Since recovery and health are both important, you want to take your time on getting the right caregiver, but of course not too much time. Below are some things to consider when finding family care.
A home care agency can help you find the right caregiver, as they perform background checks. If you do not have a lot of time to look around, this can serve as a benefit to you, as it gives you more time to focus on your health. Keep in mind, though, that a home care agency may charge a fee, so look around for the best prices, as your budget is equally important.
You may be able to find a good agency or caregiver via word of mouth. Ask your doctor for recommendations on a good home care agency with reasonable rates. Also, consult your insurance provider to see if they are willing to cover any costs. It might be a tough sell, but it is worth a shot regardless. If you do not want to go the agency route, check the classifieds sections of newspapers or online forums, and find assistance that way. Keep in mind that trust is a major factor, so you will want to conduct a background check and get references from the applicant’s family or friends.
Once you find the right caregiver, be sure to provide a list of rules and regulations, especially if he or she plans to live in the home. This list should include dos and don’ts, like smoking or guest policies, as well as things you are allergic to, or scents that irritate you (i.e. cleaning products). If your recovery requires an oxygen tank, be sure to include that in your list as well.
If money remains a factor, ask a relative or friend if they would be willing to look after you, as even one day a week could save a few dollars. While you may still need the services of a caregiver, allow your loved one or friend to drive you around to run errands or pick up medications and take you to doctor’s appointments. caregiver agencies