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INTRO
Today on the blog I have a great collaboration that helps with navigating the process of finding care for our elderly parents when the time comes. I think we all hope that we won't need to access much help, but it's better to have some knowledge tucked away, than to be caught completely unaware if the need arises suddenly. And I'm also keeping in mind that I might need to know some of this for my own needs down the track.
FINDING THE BEST CARE PROVIDERS FOR YOUR PARENTS
As a child, your parents devoted a significant part of their lives to making sure you were well looked after and cared for. So, it is only natural you will want to return the favour if they ever need to choose an NDIS provider.
While you are likely aware of the services they will require and when you’ll need the support to begin, you may find the process of finding the right company a little bit overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be hard to determine which one best suit their needs, goals and personality. But fear not, because we have got you covered!
SEARCH ONLINE RESOURCES
QUESTIONS TO ASK
1. WHAT
ARE THEIR QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE?
Every registered NDIS provider is required to hold specific qualifications and meet certain criteria that relate to the services they offer.
When assessing which one to pick for your
parents, you should make a point of ensuring they have not only the necessary
qualifications but also the experience to provide them with the level and type
of support they need.
2. ARE
THEY PERSON-CENTRED?
Perhaps the most important consideration
when picking an NDIS provider for your parents is the degree to which they take
a person-centred approach.
This type of strategy puts your parents,
their goals, requirements and living situation at the core of all the care
solutions the provider suggests. Moreover, it should recognise and build on
your parents’ unique strengths.
3. HOW
WELCOMING AND INCLUSIVE ARE THEY?
NDIS providers should always make sure
their operation is inclusive and welcoming.
Whether it be the staff or services, you
should make sure the provider values inclusivity because if they do, they will
most likely centre their support around your parent’s personality, unique needs
and cultural background.
4. HOW
COLLABORATIVE ARE THEY?
Your parents deserve a support system that
works together to offer the best level of care for their needs. For this
reason, it is important that the registered NDIS provider you choose shares
knowledge, information and skills, not just with them, but also their family
members and carers.
5. WHAT
IS THEIR AVAILABILITY, FLEXIBILITY, AND ACCESSIBILITY?
Any NDIS service provider you choose should
be able to provide the aged care support your parents need as and
when they require it.
When assessing them, try to establish how
available their services are. You should also ask questions about their
flexibility when sudden changes arise, for instance, if you need to change or
cancel a shift.
6. WHAT
ARE THEIR COSTS?
The cost and payment terms the NDIS
provider offers are another salient consideration. Therefore, you should find
out from them exactly what they will involve if you engage their services.
I HOPE THAT HELPED
Great information - thanks Leanne.
ReplyDeleteHi Jo - I hope I never need it, but it's good to have some extra insights.
DeleteIt's something we all need to be aware of. I know that we did what we could via My Aged Care for Dad in his last 6 months when he "admitted" he could do with some help around his place. It definitely IS a tricky conversation at times. Denyse
ReplyDeleteHi Denyse - I think any conversation with an independent older parent is fraught if they're not ready to hear it, which is why it's good to have all the resources at our fingertips for when the time comes. My Aged Care is another great resource.
DeleteYou need my aged care to get all the codes needed to access the help needed.
ReplyDeleteHi - yes, thanks for that - My Aged Care is definitely a great resource for elder care.
DeleteHi Leanne, this is good information for anyone facing on currently involved with caring for an elderly parent. Based on our personal experience, the participant must be receptive to assistance and getting them to that point is the hardest part. Introductions can make or break an experience and you are completely right about making sure caregivers are 'person centered.' My MIL had some wonderful aides, and some who shouldn't be in the profession. Our only regret is that we didn't begin the process sooner. There is a steep learning curve with lots of information coming all at once. Being prepared and ahead of the game is advisable.
ReplyDeleteHi Suzanne - I thought of you as I formatted this post, and others too who have recently had the trauma of trying to find the best solution for an aging parent. There's so much to navigate, and finding just the right balance of care and support that a parent is willing to accept is such a hard juggle to achieve. And yes, starting sooner, rather than leaving it until they are desperate is definitely the best advice.
DeleteLeanne,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to stop by to thank you for your visit and kind words..Keeping busy helps me to get through the days as I try to find a new normal for me...I hope you are having a great week!!
Hugs,
Deb
Debbie-Dabble Blog
Hi Debbie - so glad you're doing well - and gradually adapting. You inspire me with your positivity and can-do attitude x
DeleteGreat information, Leanne. My parents and in-laws are deceased, but the questions listed are useful in selecting a new provider for myself. Another thought occurred to me when I read this phrase: "As a child, your parents devoted a significant part of their lives to making sure you were well looked after and cared for. So, it is only natural you will want to return the favour." My father was missing from my life for most of my growing-up years. We reconnected when I was an adult. When the time came that he needed assistance with medical issues, I struggled with some resentment. I worked through it, but now I think that might be an interesting topic for a blog post.
ReplyDeleteHi Christie - yes, I fully understand what you're saying about your dad. My dad was present physically, and absent emotionally throughout my life - it made it very difficult to mourn his passing and to reconcile what others say about how much they miss their parents who've passed away. (I wrote a post on that when it happened and I'd be interested to read one if you write about your thoughts). The whole end of life, aged care support is such a huge hurdle for all of us with aging parents, and any help is welcome (hence this post).
DeleteIt's not an easy time Leanne and the emotional upheaval can be difficult when we need to make decisions with a clear head. Thanks for your post!
ReplyDeleteYou're so right Deb - I'm dreading it if the time comes to have to make these decisions for my mum - I hope she gets to age in place with as much vitality as she has right now - for many years to come.
Delete