Caregiving Conundrum
Posted on May 8th, 2018 by Anna Dolezal, under Long Term Care, Medical Planning, Palliative Care & Hospice, Patient Advocacy, Sandwich Generation, Senior Orphans
http://www.northshorern.com/the-caregiver-conundrum/
The number of seniors in America is skyrocketing, just as the number of available family members per seniors is declining
This poses a caregiver conundrum for a lot of people. 50 years ago, it was easy. As parents or grandparents aged, their nearby family members would take care of them. Now, families are having fewer children. As Baby Boomers reach seniority, we have a storm a-brewing.
Why hire privately…
http://blog.aarp.org/2015/03/05/amy-goyer-challenges-with-paid-caregivers/
Consider hiring directly. Though I’ve used both poorly managed and excellent agencies, I’ve had more success and much less stress when I’ve hired caregivers directly, using an online service that matches caregivers and families or via personal referrals. We’ve had fewer emergency room visits, less turnover and better care coordination. I’m very careful to check backgrounds, experience and references; I monitor care closely.
Private companies have little if no turnaround. Agencies have low retention rates and therefore your care might be repeatedly changed and routine constantly disrupted. Agencies require a four hour minimum, private care does not. I provide a very unique and tailor-made service. The headaches associated with home care agencies are eliminated. I am a well-educated professional who is personally accountable for your loved one’s well-being. This is not a job for me but a life choice.
Home care is the best option for long term care needs. Seniors get to live in their own home with someone coming in daily to check in on them. It is peace of mind for our elders and their caregivers. It is customizable care and is much more cost effective than a facility.