There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to caring for an aging loved one. But with more than 10 million seniors currently residing in the U.S., the demand for affordable and quality senior care services has never been greater. It’s no secret that having an older parent (or parents) can be stressful and take a toll on anyone. Thankfully, there are many reputable senior care agencies that can help ease some of that pressure so you can focus on taking care of your mom or dad. A good senior care agency will not only provide you with peace of mind by allowing you to focus on other responsibilities, but also assist you through every step of the process from selecting the best caregivers for your parent to providing essential services such as accounting and transportation. Day or Night Senior Care, a metro-Boston based leader in the Elder Care industry, has set industry standards for other agencies to emulate. Below is information based on Day or Night Senior Care's standards.

What to Look for in a Senior Care Agency

There are many different factors that should be taken into account when selecting a senior care agency, including caregiver qualifications, monthly caregiver fee, services included, and responsibilities of the agency. If a senior care agency is not properly trained and qualified to handle your loved one’s needs, the results could be disastrous. It is essential to find an agency that is not only capable of handling medical emergencies, but also one that has empathy and compassion towards seniors. When it comes to monthly caregiver fees, you should be prepared to pay a fee that is commensurate with the quality of service you are receiving. While the average monthly caregiver fee can range anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000, generally, the best agencies charge a higher rate since they are able to provide much more than other agencies.

Agency Care Fees

A reputable senior care agency will charge a weekly caregiver fee that is based on the level of care your loved one requires. Generally, the higher the level of care, the greater the monthly fee. For example, an agency that charges $2,000 per month for level-two care, which includes preparing meals, doing light housekeeping, and providing medication reminders, will likely charge more than an agency that provides a lower level of care for $1,200 per month. While the monthly caregiver fee is not a negotiable point, you should make sure that you are receiving the services you are paying for. If you are not, you have the right to dispute the charges and potentially switch to an agency that provides a more adequate level of care.

Services Included

When comparing senior care agencies, it is important to determine what services are included. If an agency is charging you a high monthly fee, it should provide you with more than just caregiver services. For example, a top-notch agency will provide transportation to and from doctor appointments, manage your loved one’s medication, help with household chores, and even provide 24/7 monitoring in case of a medical emergency. Generally, the best agencies cover all of your loved one’s basic needs and then some. When comparing different agencies, make sure you understand exactly what services are included in each monthly fee.

Responsibilities of the Agency

When selecting a senior care agency, it is important to understand what the agency’s responsibilities are. While the best agencies will have an established screening process to ensure that only the best caregivers are hired, that does not mean that you are off the hook for selecting qualified personnel for your loved one. A senior care agency will generally require that you provide a list of desired attributes when selecting a caregiver. It is important that you select a caregiver that not only meets your needs, but also your loved one’s. If you select a caregiver that is compatible with your parent, the transition to living in a different environment should be seamless. The best agencies will help you through every step of the process and even schedule a “meet and greet” with prospective caregivers.

Final Words

There are many different factors that should be taken into account when selecting a senior care agency, including caregiver qualifications, monthly caregiver fee, services included, and responsibilities of the agency. The best senior care agencies will provide you with everything you need to ensure your loved one is receiving quality care. A good agency is not only convenient, but also reliable and reputable.