How to pick the right care at home company for your elderly parents

As your parents age, they may need more help around the house. If you're considering hiring a care at home company to assist them, it's important to choose one that will meet their needs and provide quality care. Here are some tips for picking the right care at home company for your elderly parents:

Research care services in your area

It's important to choose a care at home company that is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is responsible for regulating and inspecting healthcare services in England. You can check if a company is registered by searching the CQC website. Find the Right at Home Twickenham to Weybridge CQC report here.

In addition to checking the CQC registration, it's also a good idea to read reviews from other people who have used the company's services. You can find reviews on the company's website or by searching online. 

When you're considering different care at home companies, make sure to ask about their caregiver training and qualifications. The caregivers should be properly trained to provide quality care for your parents.

Finally, it's important to meet with the caregivers who will be looking after your loved one. This will give you a chance to ask questions and get to know them. It will also allow you to see how your parents interact with their caregivers. 

Match your parents needs with the right type of homecare company

The company you choose should be able to provide the services your parents need. If your parents are relatively healthy and just need some help with housekeeping or transportation, look for a homecare company that offers those services.

Be sure to ask about the types of services the company offers and whether they can customise their services to meet your parents' needs. It's also important to find out how much experience the company has in providing care for elderly clients and those with complex or degenerative illness.

Sourcing specialist dementia care is particularly important to provide your loved one with the best support possible. Your care company can make sure that they have a healthy diet, they take their medication on time and they get the mental stimulation they need.

Involve your loved one

It's important to involve your parents in the process of choosing a homecare company. It may take time to adjust to the idea of having someone look after them, or having someone new take over care when you have cared for your parents so far.

Ask your parents about their preferences and what type of care they would like to receive. It can be a good opportunity to review their current routine and care arrangements and make changes or try something new. This will help ensure that they are comfortable with the care company and that their needs are being met.

Ask for a full assessment and care plan

When you're considering different homecare companies, make sure to ask for a full assessment and care plan. This will help you understand what services the company can provide and how they will be able to meet your parents' needs.

The care plan is individually tailored to your parents. It will include an assessment of their physical, mental and emotional needs. It will also identify any risks involved in providing care and be reviewed regularly to make sure that it meets your parents' changing needs. Right at Home offer a free assessment - call us today on 0203 376 3535.

Compare costs of different care providers

Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a care at home company. The cost will vary depending on the services your parents need and the number of hours of care required.

It's a good idea to get quotes from several different companies before making a decision. Be sure to ask about any discounts or promotions that may be available.

You should also find out if the company charges an hourly rate or a flat fee. Most companies offer a free initial assessment to help you determine the best care plan for your loved one.

Get recommendations from friends and family

If you know someone who has used a homecare company, ask them for their recommendation. They will be able to give you first-hand information about their experience with the company and their caregivers.

Make sure you're comfortable with the company. It's important that you feel comfortable with the homecare company you choose. You should feel confident in their abilities to care for your parents and meet their needs.

Links to related articles:

How to choose between homecare and a nursing home

Calculating the cost of homecare