Family Limits
Family members are a logical first choice for care. However, the physical, financial and emotional demands must be considered.
Home-health aides can provide respite for family caregivers. You may want to distinguish between individuals who work directly with a family versus one employed by a company since the former may be less expensive.
In some situations, the relief provided by an aide may allow a family member to earn additional income in excess of the cost of a caregiver.
Some care needs may require an extended care facility.
In any case, there is a wealth of private and public resources available to help you through all phases of securing care for your child.
Ask Questions
Whichever direction you take, you will want to perform due diligence on caregiver candidates.
For individual caregivers, ask about their education, experience and skills. Do they match your child’s needs? Is the caregiver certified? Pose questions relating to your child’s situation. Be attuned to whether the candidate is empathetic or simply views your child as a job.
Interviewing a care facility is also about gauging competency and compassion. Ask about alleged abuse or neglect. What is the staff-to-patient ratio? Call response time? Is supervision present 24/7? What activities are offered? Does the facility have patients compatible to your child? Is the facility accredited? What’s the staff turnover rate?
In each case, ask for references and contact them.
Stay Involved
Ongoing communication is critical to the caregiver understanding your expectations and in meeting them.
Set regular meetings with the caregiver and ask questions. Offer to volunteer time or join in activities, which will provide you with a deeper insight into care levels.
Participation sends a strong message to your child and the facility.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG, LLC, to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2014 Faulkner Media Group.
