Caregiving help for a parent - what has worked well for you?

Jen_Moss

My brother and I care 24/7 for a mom with ALZ, probably middle stage. We both work full time, but my brother is able to work from home, so that is the only way we have been able to manage it. We have both developed chronic health problems, probably from the years of stress as we have been managing Mom's care for several years now. I was recently diagnosed with an embolic stroke that has affected my mobility, so now we add that into the mix.

So far, we have not used any caregiving agencies for help, but I think that will need to change. What has worked well for your situation - is it a solo, independent caregiver? Or, has using a service been better? I am concerned about using an independent caregiver as there is nothing to back you up in the case of an issue.

Also, do caregivers that work with you tend to be careful about viruses, such as COVID? My mom has not had COVID and we are very protective of her, wearing masks in public, etc. as she gets bronchitis at the drop of a hat.

JulietteBee

For safety and reliability, I would suggest you hire through an agency. They will do background checks on their employees and if your assigned worker is out sick, they will send a replacement. You can also tell them you want her caretaker/s to wear a mask while on duty.