Caring for a senior loved one can be a full-time job, especially when you're faced with many other daily responsibilities. That's why family caregivers are encouraged to seek out home health care when their duties become too much. These services ensure your loved one has their daily needs met, while providing them with essential companionship. Here are a few to get ready for assistance. 

3 Steps to Prepare for Home Health Care Services

1. Have an Open Discussion With Your Family Member

Seniors may still be hesitant, even when home care is in their best interest. You can soothe any anxiety they have by discussing the matter before the home health aide arrives. Explain what to expect and how assistance is going to make your loved one's life better. You can also highlight how much the health aide will assist you, as caregiver stress can be debilitating in some cases. 

2. Make Sure Your Loved One's Supplies Are Accessible

Home health care workers can help with meal preparation, medication administration, personal care, and many other areas. As a result, you should arrange your loved one's belongings, so they can be easily accessed by the health aide. For instance, create a central hub for medications, vitamins, and supplements. You can also organize your loved one's pantry to make ingredients for meals easy to access. 

3. Arrange a Preliminary Meeting  

Your loved one is bound to feel a lot more comfortable if they meet the health aide prior to the first day of assistance. If possible, ask the health care worker to visit your loved one afternoon, so they can get acquainted. Getting to know each other through casual circumstances takes some pressure off. It also shows your family member that their new caregiver is a friendly and responsible person. 

If you or a loved one need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits if you do not qualify for Medicaid. There’s also the option of arranging for regular nurse visits at home if you or your loved one doesn’t yet need a facility. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.