If you have a senior loved one living on their own, you may have concerns about their safety and wellness. In-home elderly care might be a good option for your family member, as it provides the support they need while also allowing them to retain their independence. Here are some steps you can take to choose the perfect agency to address your loved one's needs. 

Do:

Consider the needs of the senior.

Home care is best for seniors who need support for daily activities. This includes meal preparation, personal care, transportation, medical reminders, and light housekeeping. Home care staff can lend a hand with those duties, while also providing essential companionship and socialization. If your loved one has advanced medical needs, they may be better served by another form of assistance. 

Ask the right questions. 

Once you've found a few worthy candidates, be prepared to ask questions. First, you'll need to determine whether their services line up with the needs of the senior. Next, you should make sure that the agency you select can accommodate your schedule, especially if your loved one needs overnight assistance. Before speaking with agencies, jot down a few questions to help you remember them. 

Don't:

Hire a company without reading reviews. 

Online reviews give you an unbiased perspective on the quality of elderly care your loved one will receive. While you can also request referrals, reviews provide even deeper insight. Be sure to check them before agreeing to service, as it can spare you a lot of stress and headaches.  

Leave the senior out of the loop.

While you have the best interests of your loved one in mind, they should still be included in the decision. Allow your relative to join you when interviewing prospective aides and encourage them to ask questions of their own. Check in frequently about how they feel about the situation and whether they'd like to do anything differently. The more input they provide, the more confident they'll feel about the arrangement. 

Dutifully serving residents throughout Norfolk, VA, Briggs Home Health Agency offers kind and compassionate elderly care to clients. These home care aides are available 24/7 to support seniors and their families and are happy to customize services according to your needs. The staff is also fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind. Discuss your needs with a friendly and knowledgeable representative today by calling (757) 628-1011. You can also visit them online for more helpful tips and information.