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Updated: May 1, 2023
Many people don’t realize homecare providers offer an important service even before care commences. Our not-for-profit designates a registered nurse to conduct an assessment to help prospective clients and family members consider a care plan that meets their needs. In addition to determining what’s best for the person, we also evaluate their home setting in case there are safety concerns to address.
Whether short-term assistance is needed while recuperating from surgery or ongoing support for chronic conditions such as COPD and Parkinson’s disease, our goal is to determine the right kinds and amount of care and support, so clients can enjoy staying in their homes.
Isolation is a big factor for older adults living alone. In some cases, more than anything, companionship is needed. An assessment helps many older adults and their families discover specific tasks that can be delegated to the homecare companion, such as preparing breakfast, vacuuming or doing laundry.
While some people fully realize their care needs, others need help identifying services that would improve their quality of life. Life Care at Home provides a comprehensive picture enabling people to look at their situation with fresh eyes. The resulting support provided by homecare workers makes life easier those needing care and relieves working family members of day-to-day stresses as well.
How to Qualify for Home Health Care:
Life Care at Home uses a 12-page questionnaire to determine a person’s stay-at-home needs by considering
A person’s ability to negotiate stairs, if needed
If and how mobility aides such as wheelchairs, walkers or canes can help a person easily access bathrooms, hallways and doorways
Ability to reach cabinets without climbing a stool or chair
Safe use of the bathroom and whether guidance may be needed for installing grab bars
The assessment also helps determine whether the following services are needed:
Reminders to take medications
Assistance with bathing and personal grooming
Assistance with shopping, meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping
Many older adults deny they need help but participating in an assessment breaks down barriers and brings understanding so they can better enjoy living in their home. Assessments can help determine if homecare is appropriate or if assisted living or skilled nursing care may be needed.
Because assessments are the foundation for a care plan specific to each individual, they serve as a daily guide for caregivers. To gain, valuable information that will help you or your loved one maintain independence, contact a homecare provider today. An in-home assessment by a Life Care at Home nurse is free and does not involve an obligation.