Finding a home health aide for your aging loved one can be a stressful process. You want to find someone who is well-qualified and can personally connect with your loved one. Here's some advice for navigating the process of hiring at-home care. 

Do: 

Ask plenty of questions.

Have a set of interview questions ready for every home health aide you speak to. While these should include asking about professional qualifications, you should also add questions that allow you to get to know the candidate’s personality. 

Do they seem to enjoy their job? Do they share any interests with your loved one? The more you ask, the better idea you’ll have of how well the aide will fit. 

Work with an agency. 

While it’s possible to hire an aide outside of an agency, it's typically better to use one. Agencies require their staff to have up-to-date training and have strict guidelines everyone must follow. 

You’ll feel more comfortable knowing that you're hiring someone who is qualified to conduct important duties, like medication management or passive range of motion exercises. An agency can also help you with any questions or concerns you have about at-home care. 

Don’t: 

Expect to always be in charge. 

It can be difficult leaving your loved one’s care in the hands of someone else, but the home health aide should have the freedom to perform their duties correctly. This ensures the professional remains comfortable in their position and fosters a strong relationship between everyone and the caregiver. While it’s fine to ask questions and give feedback, make sure you allow the caregiver to work on their own. 

Put off hiring a home health aide. 

It can be difficult to make the leap of hiring a home health aide, but don’t put off this important task. Qualified caregivers are in high demand, and you may need to wait a period of time before your ideal candidate can begin working. 

You also don’t want to wait until after an emergency to finally get an aide. An at-home caregiver can help your loved one maneuver around the home to prevent falls or injuries. 

If you’re looking for a home health aide for your aging loved one, turn to Angels Care Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. This agency offers families in St. Louis County and St. Charles with a variety of options, including at-home care. They hire experienced and compassionate caregivers who provide exceptional service. They can help your loved one with numerous daily tasks, including cooking, bathing, and cleaning. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (314) 381-0321 to discuss your needs.