How To Choose The Right Care Provider
Deciding when to arrange care for an elderly parent is never easy, and approaching this conversation can be a daunting prospect. However, it’s important that you know how to choose the right care provider to assure their standard of living. As everybody’s needs are different, each person’s care should be tailored to their exact needs. We share some useful steps to help you find suitable support for your loved one, so you can all have peace of mind.
Step 1: Assess Care Needs
When someone is starting to struggle with everyday tasks or their personal care, you will need to assess their care needs. Firstly, gently speak to your mum or dad about the things they need help with and any challenges they might be experiencing. Always respect their pride and dignity in any conversations around care. If your parent has been recently discharged from hospital, they should have a care plan. If you are unsure, call their GP.
Step 2: Consider Care Options
There are different types of care, including home care, live-in care and respite care. Also known as ‘domiciliary care’, home care can cover a broad range of support and can be supplied daily, weekly or monthly. It can be provided in the short-term when someone is recovering from an injury or surgery or on a long-term, ongoing basis. Live-in care provides someone with dedicated 24/7 support and respite care enables carers to get some rest.
Step 3: Compare Care Providers
Recommendations are always useful when it comes to finding a good care provider. Always check reviews on trusted reputable sources such as the Homecare.co.uk website. Every registered care provider, healthcare and social care setting in the UK is monitored by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This organisation carries out inspections and allocates a rating relating to the quality of service. Make sure you check the CQC rating of any care provider being considered to ensure they have at least a Good rating.
Step 4: Arrange a Visit
Once you have a shortlist of care providers, arrange for them to visit you and your loved one at their home. They will then be able to carry out a care assessment of their individual needs. This should be a free, no-obligation visit, so you are also given the opportunity to assess whether they are right for your loved one.
Step 5: Choose Care Provider
Before deciding on your care provider, check if their services can be scaled up to support your loved one’s changing needs. Home care might start with a weekly visit to help with housework, but your parent might eventually need daily assistance with personal care. If you are worried about a lack of companionship, short daily visits can also provide your parent with enriching experiences.
“I contacted Caremark in January 2024. I needed additional support in caring for my elderly mother. I didn’t really know what support I needed and after a conversation with the manager and one of his supervisors, they were able to help me form a plan. They’ve been very accommodating. We have two different carers that visit twice a week. Both have been able to take a large weight off my shoulders. Providing the care and consideration that Mum needs. Now, after a few weeks, they just come in and crack on with whatever is needed, whether that might be helping my mum have a shower or hanging out some washing.
Lorna P (Daughter of Client)
Find the Right Care Service With Caremark Warwick
At Caremark Warwick, we know that it can be daunting to have conversations about care with your loved ones. This is why we offer a free, no-obligation assessment before you reach this stage, which can involve the whole family. Even if you choose another provider, we are happy to walk you through our process and we will explain everything you need to consider.
If you are about to embark on sourcing care for a parent and you are unsure how to start, please get in touch. From home care and respite care to live-in care, we are here to help.