As they age, most people want to keep living life on their own terms, from the comfort of the home and community they know and love.
But for children of aging parents, it can be hard to know how best to support aging parents to live life the way they choose. We’ve supported thousands of older Australians and their families and common concerns we hear include:
What will give you peace of mind?
The right home care provider will work in with your family network and your parents so you can feel relaxed and confident, knowing Mum and Dad have everything they need to live a full and active life, with the right help where they need it. This article provides a list of things to keep in mind when helping your parents choose the right provider.
Care you can trust
A home care provider is the organisation your parents select to deliver the government-subsidised aged care services they need to live safely and independently in their own home.
First and foremost, you want the highest quality people on the care team – their qualifications, training, screening and clinical oversight are important to check. Are they friendly people who will listen carefully?
Who will manage this care team? Will your Mum or Dad have a consistent and appropriately qualified Care Partner who will understand their circumstances and take the time to get to know them? Will they select and lead a multi-disciplinary care team that suits their individual needs?
Care for today and tomorrow
Things change. Situations change. Organising home care that has the flexibility to change along with your parents’ needs makes good sense.
Perhaps Mum or Dad has a fall or is diagnosed with an illness. They might need access to some home health care services, whether short-term or long-term, to help with medication management and managing symptoms.
Perhaps they are in good health but are rarely leaving the house and would benefit from support to make new friends or get out and about in their local community? Perhaps they are seeking to make connections with others from a similar cultural background?
It’s worth checking whether providers can offer expertise in a range of areas – for example, personal and clinical care, allied health and home maintenance including a network of qualified and compliance checked contractors.
Care that’s individual
Everyone’s support needs are different. And everyone has their own story that shapes who they are. Nothing will bring you more peace of mind than knowing that Mum or Dad has a care team that provides the right blend of support, practical assistance and encouragement in just the way they like it.
Does the provider you are considering demonstrate a commitment to listening, understanding your parents’ needs, and thinking outside the box to come up with the individual combination of services and supports that are right for them?
When it comes to building a care plan, will they conduct a thorough assessment of their needs and gather information about their health and wellness goals, hobbies, interests and personal preferences? Will they consider Mum and Dad’s home environment, current routine and any existing care they have?
Care that’s in your corner
For children of aging parents, navigating aged care can be stressful and, at times, overwhelming. Knowing arrangements are in place that ensure your loved ones are safe, happy and being cared is vital.
It’s worth finding a provider that will go above and beyond to help you and your family make informed decisions and get the best possible outcomes from home care funding.
Will the provider arm your parents with independent advice, information and resources in relation to their funding and care? Will they closely monitor your parents, their care and advocate on their behalf, should there be a case for additional government funding? Will they solve problems and ensure your parents’ views, rights and concerns are heard and escalated?
At Centacare, Care really is our calling—we’ve been around for 65 years, walking alongside people in ways that help them live their fullest lives. For us, supporting people to stay living in the home they love is more than a job, it’s a genuine calling.
Find out more about Centacare Home Care Packages. Call us on 1300 236 822.