6 min read
Deciding when to bring in help is not easy. This practical guide walks you through clear signs and questions so you can support your loved one with confidence. Use it to talk with family members, capture daily needs, and decide what level of in-home care makes sense.
How to use this checklist
Set aside time to observe a typical day. Write down routines, times, and any tasks that are hard to manage. The goal is to understand needs, not to judge. When in doubt, ask your loved one what would make each day easier.
Care needs and daily routines
Consider what support is needed morning, afternoon, and evening. Note wake time, meals, naps, medications, bathing, toileting, and bedtime. A simple timeline helps you see where help will make the biggest difference.
Hands-on care or companionship
Decide how much hands-on assistance is needed for bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility, versus companionship and activity support. If companionship is the priority, list favorite activities, hobbies, and social visits that bring joy.
Transportation and errands
Think about rides to the doctor, therapy, grocery store, community events, or visiting loved ones. Decide how travel will work, and confirm the home care agency verifies caregiver vehicle insurance when caregivers drive.
Memory and cognition
If there is memory loss or confusion, talk to a clinician about diagnosis and guidance. Understanding the type of dementia or cognitive change helps match the right caregiver skills and routines for safety and calm.
Language and communication
If a specific language is preferred, or hearing and speech supports are needed, include that in your notes. Good communication lowers stress for everyone.
Hours and scheduling
Estimate how many hours of help are needed per day or per week. Start with a minimum that covers the most important tasks, then adjust after the first week based on real experience.
Diet and meal support
List any food allergies, dietary preferences, or cooking needs. Decide how groceries will be purchased or delivered if shopping is difficult.
Specialized health tasks
Note any skilled items a clinician has directed, such as blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, wound care, or feeding tube care. Share these details with your provider so the right training is assigned.
Medication management
Write down medications, schedules, and how doses are tracked. Confirm any timing rules, such as taking pills with or without food, so a caregiver can remind and support correctly.
Care management and coordination
Caregivers focus on hands-on support. A care manager can help with the bigger picture, such as pharmacy refills, scheduling appointments, coordinating services, and guiding long-term decisions with your family.
What to do next
Bring your notes to a conversation with a local care manager. Together you can build a simple care plan that starts small and grows only as needed. The goal is safety, comfort, and independence, with family peace of mind.
Have questions or want help building your care plan? Call 509-606-0177 or contact us to schedule a free in-home consult.
