How to find a live-in caregiver?

Families who choose to employ a live-in caregiver often find that they are really better off having one around the house to provide care for their loved one round the clock. That is because family members, as much as they want to, cannot spend all their time providing care for their seniors. Career, studies, travel, and other undertakings also need to be taken care of.

According to the New York-based non-profit organization PHI, there are more than 2 million in-home personal care providers for seniors and persons with disabilities. With so many professionals, how do you know you are getting the best live-in caregiver for you?

This article will discuss how to find a live-in caregiver, which for most families, is something that can be difficult to do.

Types of in-home caregivers

1. Personal care aides

They do not have licenses since they are not required to get one, but they do have training of varying sorts. Personal care aides’ training includes helping in dressing, grooming, housekeeping, and healthcare. 

They serve not only as helpers but as companions as well. Their training requirements differ by state, but some states do not even require training standards at all.

2. Licensed and certified nursing assistants

Both the LNAs and the CNAs observe and track changes in the client. They take vital signs, change dressings, monitor infections, clean catheters, set up medical equipment, administer medical treatment, and others. 

They also help with dressing, grooming, bathing, preparing meals, feeding, dental tasks, and more. 

3. Skilled nursing providers

Skilled nursing providers are licensed by the state and meet federal standards for health and safety. They are also known as licensed practical nurses or LPNs. 

They assess, manage and monitor your older adult’s care and give direct care that home health and non-medical aides cannot, such as administering IV drugs, tube feedings, and shots.

4. Registered nurses

These people have a nursing diploma or associate degree in nursing. They give direct care, administer medications, work on medical monitoring machines, advise family members, and help doctors in medical procedures.

Hiring a live-in caregiver

1. Evaluate your need

Figure out the level of assistance you need. With your older adult, write down their demands and limitations, likes and dislikes, fears, and doctor recommendations.

2. Picking your search method

You always want to find a trustworthy, warm, and competent caregiver. Do you feel most confident employing a home health company with staff? Or would you instead employ an independent freelancer directly through a friend’s or family’s referral or a staffing service?

Whatever technique you choose, you and your loved one should interview applicants jointly if possible. Formulate written queries, and be clear about job specifications.

Living Well Family Care can help

If finding the right live-in caregiver seems too difficult for you, we have just got the solution. At Living Well Family Care, we provide quality in-home care that is easy on the budget. We offer trustworthy in-home care for your family here in the North Carolina Triad region so your senior adult can live happier, more independent lives.

For more information, please call us at (336) 763-6998.