If you're considering the benefits of Home Care services for you or a loved one, the first step in the process will be to have your in-home Home Care assessment.
This article walks you through exactly what to expect during the assessment as well as anything you may want to have prepared before the meeting.
What to Expect During Your Home Care Assessment
The assessment is broken into two parts. First, a Care Coordinator will meet with you to discuss the needs and abilities of the individual that will be receiving care and support services.
Next, they'll perform a safety review of the home to ensure it meets the requirements for providing in-home care services and won't pose any potential risks to the health and safety of the person receiving Home Care.
This may all sound a little overwhelming, especially if you're considering the option of home care in response to a recent change in health, an injury or an illness. But rest assured, Care Coordinators are trained to support you during this transition and to ensure you are armed with information while having the best options available to you.
You'll feel much more at ease after the assessment.
Part 1: Discussing Your Home Care Needs
Your Care Coordinator will look to gather some information from you about the individual looking to receive Home Care. During this time, your Care Coordinator will document the discussion using the provided forms.
This is an opportunity to share with your Care Coordinator the overall requirements for you or your loved one, what the day-to-day looks like, and why you've chosen to consider Home Care services, along with asking any questions you may have.
Part 2: Assessing the Home
Your Care Coordinator will need to assess the home. During this time, they will:
Take a walk-through to fully understand the layout of the home, including bedrooms, washrooms, common spaces, stairs, etc.
Assess the electrical layout and set-up including if outlets are available/in use and if extension cords are present.
Ensure the presence of functional smoke alarms and a fire extinguisher within the expiration date.
Check the condition of rugs/runners/carpets and flooring and determine any potential tripping hazards.
Assess the cleanliness and organization of the home including the kitchen and appliances, laundry room, bathrooms and other essential spaces.
Meet any pets living in the home and review their overall health and temperament.
Evaluate the entrances and exits to the home including any security systems that are in place.
Determine if there is immediate access to a phone in the event of an emergency.
Check the presence and functionality of heating and cooling systems.
Reviewing these will help your Care Coordinator to determine how well you or your loved one are able to function in the home with the current level of support. It will also be essential for them to assess the level of care and services that will be required for Home Care.
Once the assessment is complete, your Care Coordinator will use the information they've gathered to create a personalized care plan. They will discuss the timeline for this at the end of your assessment.
How to Prepare for Your Assessment
We know that making the decision to pursue Home Care can be challenging. But it's important to remain willing to have an open and honest discussion about your or your loved one's abilities, safety, home environment, and care expectations, to set you up for success.
Before the in-home assessment, prepare a list of questions and concerns that you have. You can even take notes on the things that are important to you and your loved one, so you have them to draw on during the assessment.
Your Next Steps...
Now it's time to book your home care assessment.
At Cedrus Care Services, our mission is to help your loved one stay in their home as long as possible while maintaining their independence with personalized, in-home care and service.
With the help of our professional care team, you can rest assured knowing that you or your loved one will receive caring support while remaining safe and secure at home.
To book an in-come Home Care assessment, email info@cedruscareservices.ca or call:
Ontario +1 343 867 2274
Alberta +1 780 729 2274