Starting Home Care: What to Expect

Deciding on homecare for yourself or your loved one is one of the best choices you can make to age independently and in place. Once you have decided on the agency of your choice a few things will happen to ensure you receive the level of care you need, keep reading for a guide on what to expect when you're beginning care.

In-Home Assessment

Staff from the care agency you sign up with will schedule a time to visit you in your home. During the home visit they will learn more about your needs and what you require. They will also make note of any potential danger areas in your home, such as cluttered walkways or restrooms without accessibility features. They will go over services that their aides can provide and note the frequency with which you would like an aid to visit. This visit will help the organization to create your care plan! A client's care plan contains their medical information, physical limitations, and duties that need to be completed by an aid with each visit. Care plan information is accessed by aides at the time of their visit to ensure that no tasks are missed!

Begin Visits

Once a comprehensive care plan is created, aides will begin their scheduled visits to your home, bringing with them the expertise and compassion necessary to support your unique needs. This carefully crafted care plan serves as a roadmap for the aides, detailing all the tasks and responsibilities that were discussed and agreed upon during your initial intake meeting. Each aide will consult this plan to ensure that they are fully aware of your specific requirements, preferences, and any particular routines that you follow, allowing for a tailored approach to your care.

During the first visit, which is often referred to as the initial aid visit, you will have the opportunity to observe how well your personality aligns with that of your aid. This interaction is crucial, as establishing a rapport can significantly enhance the overall effectiveness of the care provided. The aide will not only perform the tasks outlined in the care plan but will also engage with you to better understand your individual personality and preferences. This relationship-building aspect is essential, as it fosters trust and communication, making it easier for you to express your needs and any adjustments that may be necessary.

Make Adjustments as Necessary

As the visits continue, the aide will be attentive to your evolving needs, monitoring any changes in your health or daily routine. This ongoing assessment allows them to adapt the care they provide, ensuring it remains relevant and effective. Whether it involves adjusting the frequency of assistance, modifying tasks based on your feedback, or coordinating with other healthcare professionals involved in your care, the aide plays a pivotal role in your support system. They will keep detailed records of your progress and any concerns that may arise, which can be invaluable for future consultations or adjustments to your care plan. Overall, this personalized approach ensures that you receive the highest standard of care tailored specifically to you.

Care plans are living documents so they can be changed and updated as needed. If you have an upcoming surgery and are anticipating needing extra help, you can indicate that to your home care agency. Care agencies are also aware that personalities can sometimes clash, so if you need to request a different aide, simply call in to explain your situation and they will find a new aide for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, opting for homecare for yourself or a loved one is a commendable choice that supports independent living. Once you have chosen your preferred agency, a series of steps will follow to ensure that you receive the appropriate level of care.

If you are interested in home care for yourself or a loved one please call Total at 219-937-3811 to schedule an in-home assessment.