CHOOSING A HOMECARE COMPANY

What type of assistance do we need?

Families and friends assume an incredible amount of responsibility when caring for an aging loved one. Family and friends can usually help for a short time, but extended care takes the expertise and commitment of knowledgeable professionals. As you and your family members continue to evaluate the level of care you or your loved one need, consider some of the following activities and whether you or your family member in question can independently manage these responsibilities. If the answer is no, this can also serve as an indicator of when you or your loved one may need home care. A number of options are available for finding help at home. It is often best to start by assessing your personal needs, or your needs as a caregiver and the needs of the person you are caring for. Consider the following areas:

Personal Care:

• Assistance is needed with dressing, bathing and taking medications.

Household Care:

• Help with grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning or doing laundry.

Health Care:

• Make medical appointments and drive to the doctor and drugstore.
• Meet with doctors, care managers and others to understand what care is needed.
• Manage crises or develop care plans for sick family members.
• You need or regularly help transfer someone in and out of bed, assistance with physical therapy, injections, feeding tubes or other medical procedures. You are or need a designated "on-call" family member for problems.

Emotional Care:

• You need or provide transportation, comfort and companionship for your loved ones.