Mar 04 2009
Respite Care: Checking Out My Options
Today, I spent part of my lunch hour looking into some short-term care options for Mom. On my post Help Wanted: A Baby Sitter for My Mom, I explained how we occasionally need someone to keep an eye on Mom if we are going to be gone overnight. I received a number of great comments that have given me some ideas to check into.
Networking - Many people have found wonderful caregivers through networking and word of mouth. It is helpful to meet others in similar situations by attending caregiving support groups and events
Community Resources - Many communities offer a Senior Center. Some centers offer caregiving services or referrals. You can probably find your area’s Senior Center in the Yellow Pages or through a community website. Another great place to start is your local Agency on Aging. To determine if someone qualifies for care assistance through the agency, you first fill out an application and then they conduct a needs assessment. I was able to find information on our local agency as well as other resources at Eldercare.gov.
Alzheimer’s Association - The Alzheimer’s Association website has a lot of very useful information. One very handy tool on their site is called the Care Finder. It’s a questionnaire that you complete, and then you’re able to print out a report. The report makes recommendations on the care options that may be best for your situation and questions that you should ask. They also have links to local chapters. Local chapters offer support groups and events for caregivers.
Senior Care Businesses - I was given several names of companies that provide in-home care. Some offer companionship and personal assistance, while others also provide nursing services. They all claim to employ well-trained caregivers who are insured and bonded. Of the five I looked at, three had offices near our home. I filled out the online forms to request more information. Below are the five that I looked at:
As we gather more information on these options, I’m sure we’ll find a solution that will work for us. My daughter has an out-of-town soccer game next month. It would be nice to be able to stay overnight for a fun weekend while knowing Mom is safe at home.
I’ll be interested to see which option you end up going with. I hope your able to figure something out in time for your daughter’s soccer game.
It’s great that you have several options. I hope that you find one that works well for you and your mom soon.
Also try Care.com Its a website where you can find people who will take care of almost anything parents, pets, plants, mail. Its a free account too!
I hope something works out. This is your life too, not just your mother’s.
Marilynne
It looks like there are some great options on that list
I really hope that one of them works out for the next out of town trip!!