Community
Caregiving for a loved one isn’t something someone should have to do alone. But for some people, it can certainly feel like it’s all on them. Fortunately, there are many resources and organizations that can help provide support and fulfill many — if not all — of the daily needs for people who need in-home care.
Where to start?
First, evaluate the person’s care needs and how you help. For example, maybe they only need light housecleaning and occasional help with yardwork, which you and a neighbor can handle. Others may need more intensive support than you can easily provide like full support or private in-home care for activities of daily living such as getting in and out of bed, bathing, dressing, eating and more.
It’s critical that you include your loved one in the conversation about their needs and wants, along with other family members and friends who can help. Once you’re all clear on the amount of help needed, look for appropriate resources and support.
Here are three great places to start:
- The Eldercare Locator, a public service of the Administration for Community Living, connects older adults and caregivers with support services
- The Caregiver Action Network supports caregivers and offers education, resources and peer support across the nation
- Family, friends and neighbors can also be helpful resources for referrals based on their own experiences
What in-home care services are available?
While available resources vary by location, most caregivers can find support for these key in-home services.
Health care: Your loved one might need help managing their medication or require other in-home health care. Certified nurses and home health aides help provide these services. A good place to start, other than the services noted above, is Medicare.gov which offers a search tool to find Medicare-certified home health agencies by state, city and ZIP code.
Transportation: The exponential growth in delivery services has been especially helpful for people who can’t drive. Many grocery stores, restaurants and other stores offer online shopping and delivery. If your loved one needs help with transportation to medical appointments, the bank and other errands, many city and state agencies provide free transportation programs for older adults. A quick local search should provide some good options including taxis, public transportation and ride shares.
Hygiene: Personal hygiene is important to your loved one’s physical and mental health. Home care aides can help with baths and other hygiene-related tasks. Check the Eldercare Locator and Medicare.gov for trusted resources.
Cleaning: Search locally for professional, insured and bonded housekeeping services to help with regular cleaning and deep cleaning if needed.
Yard work and home repair: Mowing the lawn, shoveling snow and doing basic home repairs may be low on the priority list, but they do need to get done. Neighbors who are willing to help might be one solution. Ask around for reputable local lawn care companies and handymen or go online to find certified pros with a home services app.
Meals: Good nutrition is fundamental to good health and well-being, especially if someone is living with a chronic condition. If your loved one can’t or doesn’t want to prepare their own healthy meals, consider setting them up for home-delivered meals. If you make meals, this service can also give you a break.
Mom's Meals can help®
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