Finding trustworthy, paid in-home support for aging parents and loved ones is a crucial decision. This guide will help you assess needs, explore options, and make informed choices about in-home support. It will also help you understand what to consider.

1. Assess Support Needs

Make a detailed list of needed assistance, covering:

Personal Care:

• Bathing and grooming

• Mobility assistance

• Medication management

• Special diet preparation

Daily Living Support:

• Meal preparation

• Light housekeeping

• Transportation needs

• Shopping and errands

• Social activities

2. Understand Your Paid Support Options

Agency Support:

• Professional screening and training

• Backup coverage available

• Higher costs but less administrative work

• Insurance and liability coverage included

Independent Support:

• Often more cost-effective

• Greater flexibility in scheduling

• More control over selection

• Direct relationship with the helper

3. Review Payment Options

• Check insurance coverage

• Explore Medicare/Medicaid benefits

• Look into long-term care policies

• Research VA benefits if applicable

• Calculate out-of-pocket costs

• Looking for a place to house it all? Use the Vault on tendercare to store this and other pivotal information for easy reference and sharing in the future

4. Create an In-Home Support Job Description

Be sure to include:

• Required tasks and responsibilities

• Schedule and time commitments

• Special skills needed

• Physical requirements

• Transportation requirements

• Pet care, if needed

5. Start Your Search

Agency Route:

• Research local agencies

• Check licenses and accreditation

• Read reviews and testimonials

• Request references

• Compare costs and services

Independent Route:

• Post on trusted care websites

• Ask for recommendations

• Check local senior centers

• Contact community organizations

• Use online job boards

6. Screen Candidates

For Agencies:

• Interview agency representatives

• Ask about screening processes

• Review placement policies

• Understand supervision practices

• Check replacement procedures

For Independent Helpers:

• Conduct background checks

• Verify references

• Check certifications

• Schedule interviews

• Document findings in tendercare

7. Interview Key Questions

Ask about:

• Relevant experience

• Training and certifications

• Emergency handling

• Schedule flexibility

• Transportation ability

• Communication style

• Store notes securely in tendercare

8. Set Up Documentation

Keep in a tendercare Vault:

• Background check results

• Reference information

• Certifications and licenses

• Insurance documentation

• Emergency contacts

• Important agreements

Pro Tips:

• Trust your instincts during interviews

• Consider a trial period

• Have backup options ready

• Keep family members informed

• Document all agreements and save them to tendercare

• Update information regularly

Remember: This process can be stressful and time-consuming. But doing the due diligence now ensures a safe system for the future. The tendercare app helps you keep all support-related information organized and secure. Use our Vault to store important documents and share access with family members, ensuring everyone has the information they need.

Related Resources:

• Managing Medical Appointments

• Creating an Emergency Plan

• Transportation Options Guide

Take time to find the right fit - good support can make a significant difference in the quality of life for both you and your loved one.