Evaluate the logistics and duration of the care you want and need. If seniors prefer to stay at home for comfort and convenience, the family should consider long-term, in-home caregivers who are part-time, full-time or can reside in-home. Those needing specialized care or end-of-life care often chose full-time caregivers, whose skills, credentials and fees vary.

There are three primary types of caregiver roles: companions/homemakers; home care aides/assistants; and medical caregivers, such as certified nursing assistants and registered nurses.

Although companion caregivers are limited when it comes to medical or hands-on assistance, they play a very valuable role, providing support and comfort to seniors when family members are in need of respite.

Home care aids/assistants can perform the same duties as companion caregivers. In addition, certified home healthcare aides can render hands-on care and help seniors with activities of daily living — bathing, dressing, grooming and ambulation.

Medical caregivers work in both home and facility settings. They include certified medical assistants (AMAs), certified/registered nursing assistants (CNAs/RNAs) and registered nurses (RNs). An AMA or CNA can fulfill most needs; RNs meet more specialized needs, aiding cancer, advanced dementia and stroke patients.


OHANA HEARING CARE
Kona Smith: 808-593-2137
www.ohanahearingcare.com