Finding Help for Your Loved One
A few people reached out to me last week regarding whether or not they needed to bring someone in to help their loved one, and if so, what to look for in a home care agency.
Many family caregivers take on the responsibility of caring for their loved ones themselves for various reasons which I understand (one day I’ll tell you more about my story). I also understand when the time comes that you’ve spread yourself so thin, or when your loved one’s health has gotten to the point that help is your only answer, that bringing an agency in is the only solution.
What I encourage anyone to do, is to start investigating home care agencies to hire before you are actually in the throws of needing one. There is nothing like the last minute call for help when your mind isn’t as clear as it should be, I went through that last minute decision process with my Sister for Mom and it wasn’t easy.
These are the people that are going to be hands-on with your loved one, so picking the right company is very important. This article, 10 Tips for Hiring In-Home Help Through an Agency, from the Family Caregiver Alliance points out important things to be on the lookout for. This part so very important; “……researching home care providers and taking steps to hire an agency, and caregiver, that best meet your needs can help ensure that your loved ones are safe and well cared for in the hands of an in-home caregiver.” Safe and well cared for are vital. I can still hear my Mom moaning in pain from the bedroom where a caregiver was changing her briefs. I ran back to ultimately find out that she was never trained in doing so. My mild demeanor went right out the window; I remember the words I said, the tone of my voice and the call I made to the owner of the company. No excuse will ever erase that day.
For your own sake and your loved one, think about this now. Start talking to other people about who they have used and get yourself prepared as best you can. Breathing Spaces is in conversation with home care agencies to bring on as trusted affiliates for you to help you narrow down your choices. Stay tuned.
Breathing Spaces Weekly Walks
If you are in the Palo Alto area and can join us, here’s a link for more information and to sign up for the weekly WALKS. This is an hour long, easy walk giving you the opportunity to connect with other family caregivers. The ability to be with others that understand your journey first hand can be some of the most valuable support you can have. If you are unable to, take some time to get out for a short walk, grab a cup of coffee, do something to give yourself a few minutes to breathe.
Regardless of whether you are currently a family caregiver or have been, don’t forget the importance of caring for yourself. You’re pretty amazing for all that you have and will do in the lives of others.
I wish you peace.
Cyndi