The kind of care your loved one needs depends on his/her level of dependence. This is something you can determine in conjunction with your loved one and his/her health care provider: Do they need to be in a nursing facility? An assisted living arrangement? Can they continue to live on their own, but with some outside help?

Taking the First Step

Before you choose HomeAide or another non-medical, homemaker/companion service, you should always review the details of your needs and the costs, as well as check references and credentials.

• Does the agency conduct criminal background checks on its employees?
• Are the caregivers employees of the organization, or do they use a referral agency?
• Are the caregivers fully insured and bonded?
• Have the caregivers been screened and well trained to provide the level of care I or my loved on needs?
• Who pays for the taxes and workers’ compensation?
• How does the agency supervise and oversee the quality of care provided by its workers?
• If a higher level of care is needed, will the agency be able to provide skilled home care?
• Is the agency a licensed home care provider?

When you are close to deciding who will provide you with help, ask yourself these questions:

• Are you, your family and your loved one comfortable with the caregiver?
• Does he/she have the required skills?
• Do you trust them, especially in emergency situations?
• Is the personality of the caregiver one that’s compatible with yours?

There are many options available when it comes to senior care. To find out more about available services, please contact HomeAide and let us help you: (402) 930-4240, homeaide@thevnacares.org.