Even the most dedicated family caregivers may, at some point, need to make room
for paid caregiving services if it is in the best interest of an elder loved one. Needs,
goals, and health concerns can change rapidly for both the Florida senior and the
family caregiver. While understanding the need for a paid caregiver does not mean
the transition will be easy, it may be the right thing to do for you and your family.
Let us share seven tips with you to help you make the best transition possible when
it comes to shifting from a family caregiver to a paid one.
1. Learn when to hire a paid caregiver. Two of the main signs that it is time to hire a
paid caregiver is when the demands of caring for an elder loved one become too
great for the caregiver to manage alone, or when the dynamic is no longer safe.
2. Do not let feelings of guilt stop you. A caregiving transition can induce feelings
of failure and guilt, as if a family member is somehow abandoning an elder loved
one. Those feelings can be overcome by knowing that you are actually tending to
an aging adult’s best interests.
3. Do not allow family conflict to impede care. Clear communication and mature
compromise among adult family members is essential. If disputes persist, consult an
independent third-party expert, such as an elder care attorney for impartial
guidance.
4. A durable power of attorney can help. A durable power of attorney allows for a
trusted confidant to make decisions about an aging adult’s long-term care needs,
including hiring caregivers and working with long-term care providers.
5. How to find a quality caregiver. One way is to contact a home care agency
located near an elder family member, another is to ask family, friends, and
associates who have been in similar situations for recommendations.
6. What to look for when hiring a senior caregiver. Make sure a prospective
caregiver is appropriately licensed and insured to perform the services you are
hiring him or her to do. Even if he or she has all the proper credentials, you will also
need to find the right personality fit.
7. Understand how much hiring a caregiver costs. Costs depend on several factors,
such as whether you hire a caregiver yourself or through an agency, and what
particular services an elder loved one needs.
These are just a few tips to get you started in your transition. We know that this
article may raise more questions than it answers. Do not wait to contact our law
office and schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns today.
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