SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2022
1B
THE COASTLAND TIMES
SENIOR L I V I N G
Finding an in-home care match One of the realities of living with impairments and the health conditions associated with old age is that it can become increasingly difficult to care for oneself. It’s why assisted living facilities exist, but many people want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. One solution is hiring an in-home caregiver. You’re not alone in this need. According to the University of California’s Institute for Health & Aging, nearly 12 million Americans are unable to live independently and around 41 million of them have a chronic health disease. According to PHI, a nonprofit advocacy group, there are more than 2.4 million U.S. workers who provide in-home personal and health care for seniors and those with disabilities. This number has doubled since 2010 in part because more people want to stay in their own homes.
Types of caregivers
This outside help can assist with household care, personal care, or even healthcare. They can help with tasks that used to be easy — eating, dressing and bathing. A qualified person can help administer medicine, encourage mobility and run errands.
Choosing a caregiver You want to make sure you have the right caregiver for your needs. Elderlaw recommends the following tips: • Assess your needs. • Write a job description. • Develop a contract. • Identify prospects. • Prepare for and interview applicants. • Check references and do a background check.
Form connections
AARP lists several kinds of inhome caregivers: • Personal care aides: These workers are not licensed and serve as helpers and companions. • Home health aides: These workers can monitor a person’s health conditions, check vital signs and help with basic life activities. • Licensed nursing assistants
and certified nursing assistants: These workers perform medical-related tasks as directed by a registered nurse or nurse practitioner. They help with personal care and domestic chores. • Skilled nursing providers: Also known as licensed practical nurses, these professionals are licensed by states and can evaluate, manage and observe a person’s care and provide direct
medical care such as administering IV drugs, tube feedings and shots; change would dressings; or provide diabetes care. • Registered nurses: These degreed and licensed professionals can provide direct medical care from all the things that skilled nursing providers do to operating medical monitoring equipment and assisting doctors in medical procedures.
Once you have hired a caregiver, you’re going to need to form good connections with that person to get the best care and to make sure your expectations are met. Ideally this person will become a good companion, one with whom you form an authentic relationship. AgingCare recommends ways you can form relationships including exchanging stories, connecting through music, and sharing hobbies and activities. If a caregiver is not providing the care that you need or your personalities clash, then find a new one. It’s important that you form good bonds so that you can enjoy remaining in your home and all the comforts that it provides.