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If your elderly parent requires home health care, it can be difficult to find the perfect caregiver for them. From ensuring the professional has the proper training in senior care to introducing them to your loved one, this process could be lengthy. However, once you find the right person, you'll feel at ease knowing your loved one is properly cared for. Follow the do's and don'ts below for a seamless process.

Do:

Assess your parent's needs. 

From mobility restrictions to medical conditions, like diabetes, assess your loved one's needs to match them with the perfect caregiver. Many professionals are trained in administering medicine, whether it's insulin or oral pills. 

Additionally, you can hire most caregivers to perform non-medical tasks, such as bathing and grooming, preparing meals, companionship, and running errands.

Thoroughly screen applicants.

home health care

Being a caregiver is a serious and important job. Prepare to interview applicants with a thorough list of questions. Ask them about their experience, certifications, and interests. If your parent requires particular medical care, such as round-the-clock oxygen tank handling and maintenance, ask the caregiver if they're comfortable with the equipment. 

Finally, ask for a list of at least three references so you can ensure the professional is equipped for the job.

Don't:

Put off the process. 

While you can continue to provide home health care for your parent, you could potentially burn out. This could cause you to become tired quicker, which could lead to fatigue while caring for your parent. To ensure your mental health is strong, don't put off the hiring process. Aim to schedule two or three interviews a week to make the process manageable for you.

Leave your senior out of the hiring process.

During the hiring process, ask your senior what qualities they would like their ideal caregiver to possess. For example, if your loved one enjoys playing board games, they may want a caregiver who enjoys playing such games as well. Involve your senior during interviews and allow them to ask potential caregivers questions to make the process more comfortable for you both.

 

Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO, is committed to helping seniors stay in their homes for as long as is safely possible. They provide a wide variety of senior home health care services, from general household activities to nurse visits. Their staff is thoroughly vetted and passionate about providing your senior with top-quality care. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your parent's caregiving needs or visit their website to browse their home health care services.

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