Caring for a parent, spouse or aging loved one is a huge responsibility that can be emotionally and physically exhausting. When you’re looking to find a caregiver near me, it is important to take your time in the process and be sure that you hire the best person to work with you and your family member. There are a variety of options for finding in-home care, including using an agency, posting an ad or hiring someone privately. Each option has its own pros and cons.
When you are interviewing prospective caregivers, make a list of the qualities you are looking for. This may include things like their experience, education and certifications, as well as your personal needs and preferences. It is also helpful to discuss with your loved one what their needs are and what their expectations are of their care provider. This will help you avoid any confusion and ensure that your loved one is getting the care they need.
After conducting interviews, be sure to check references. It’s also a good idea to talk with your family members and the potential caregiver about their personalities, as this can be an important factor in finding someone you are comfortable with. If possible, try to arrange a face-to-face meeting with the potential caregiver. This will allow you to see the person in their natural environment and get a better sense of their demeanor and character.
Before making a final decision, be sure to read all of the contract information. Be clear on what services are being provided, the duties of the caregiver, the pay rate and any other important details, such as whether or not your loved one will be allowed to have visitors or is required to keep their pets at home. It is also a good idea to discuss a schedule for payment, and any other benefits that the caregiver may be eligible for, such as vacation and holiday pay or petty cash.
Some states offer low-cost in-home care through specialized funding, so be sure to check with your local Area Agency on Aging or Senior Resource Finder for information. AARP also has a toll-free Family Caregiver hotline that can help with legal issues, medical decisions, home safety, financial matters and caregiving life balance.
It is common for family members to struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance while caring for a loved one. Hiring an in-home caregiving professional can help you have some time off to run errands, get some sleep or catch up with friends. If you are struggling to cope with the responsibilities of being a caregiver, consider seeking legal assistance from the Legal Aid Society of New York, which has a special elder law division that provides low-cost help on housing, health insurance, government benefits, disability benefits and family law. Another helpful resource is Lotsa Helping Hands, a website that enables caregivers to build a private group calendar to manage additional help from family and friends.