Some elderly people are unable to fully care for themselves, but do not wish to enter a nursing home; therefore, hiring in-home help is a great solution. Individuals can maintain their independence while being looked after by a professional. However, it is important to ensure anyone you hire can be trusted with your loved ones.
Tips For Hiring In-Home Help
The elderly can be subject to a variety of abuses by care providers. To help prevent your loved one from suffering elder abuse, follow these tips when hiring in-home help:
- Use a reputable company. There are many businesses that offer in-home health services. It is always better to hire help through an established company than to find an independent in-home worker.
- Always do your research. Before hiring anyone or any company, it is always wise to research their reputation. This can include reading online reviews, performing background checks, and checking references.
- Make sure it’s a good fit. Sometimes a home health aide is fully qualified and reputable, but just isn’t a good fit for your loved one. Remember, it’s your loved one who will spend the most time with this person, so it’s important the person you hire is compatible with them.
- Use a contract. When you find a home aide you believe is right for your loved one, always be sure to use a formal contract outlining the specific duties of the aide.
Stay In Touch With Your Loved One
Remember that hiring in-home help is not a permanent replacement for family. Many elderly people being abused by in-home help are disconnected from family members and feel they have nowhere to turn. By regularly visiting your loved ones, you maintain a relationship that can help in the event abuse does occur. Any changes in behavior, health, or finances can be a sign of elder abuse and should be immediately investigated.
In-Home Help Abuse Attorneys
While many people treat the elderly with respect, the sad reality is some individuals take advantage of the elderly. If an in-home help worker is abusing your loved one, immediately call Lopez McHugh LLP. Our in-home help abuse attorneys can put a stop to the abuse and get your loved one the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.