Consider hiring a home helper or companion if your loved one needs human assistance to safely perform activities like meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, shopping and errands, medication reminders and assistance with social or entertainment activities. Regulatory requirements vary by state. This article discusses care in the state of Virginia. If your loved one needs assistance with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, transferring, toileting and eating, a Personal Care Aide is a more appropriate choice. See our article at this link. If your loved one needs in-home medical care, hire a skilled home health provider. For an overview of the types of in-home assistance, see our article at this link. For people who are frail, ill, or recovering from injury or surgery, the assistance of a home helper can prevent problems such as injuries from falls, malnutrition, social isolation, and loss of dignity. Home helpers provide needed respite to caregivers. If your loved one could benefit from a home helper or companion, the care managers at Care is There can: Some personal care agencies and home health care agencies provide companion / home help services, and some do notWhen to Hire a Home Helper or Companion
How a Home Helper or Companion can Help Your Loved One
How Care is There can help:
What do I need to know about Home Helpers and Companions?
The Basics of Home Help and Companion Care Services
Paying for Home Help / Companionship
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Personal Care Provider:
If so, consider an agency that provides a broad spectrum of services that the client may need. This prevents the client from having to switch agencies when their care needs change.
If so, find out the policy’s requirements for the type of aide that will be covered.
If so, find out the agency’s policy on driving, and be sure you know the insurance implications.
Virginia law allows unlicensed individuals to administer medications that are normally self-administered by the client. However, each agency and private aide will have their own policies about medication reminders and administration - including filling pill boxes - so inquire in advance. Agencies offering home health services will be more likely to offer medication management services. Agencies certified by Medicare have additional requirements for training and supervision of employees helping with medications.
If not, an agency is often a better solution than a team of private aides.Choosing Between Hiring an Agency and Hiring a Private Aide
What to know about Companion / Home Helper Agencies in Virginia
What to Know about Private Personal Care Aides
Resources
Next Steps
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