Arranging Backup Care for Adult Loved Ones

WESTPORT, Conn., January 16, 2007 – Finding backup care for older adults is as important as finding backup care for children, yet many people neglect to make these crucial arrangements. Since breakdowns in regular care arrangements are sure to happen (due to holidays, vacations, unexpected closings, inclement weather, etc.), here are some options to explore when searching for backup care:

		Community Resources—Community centers, senior centers, religious organizations, support groups, and other community services may offer various types of programs for seniors and caregivers. Many community-sponsored programs are geared toward independent seniors and offer opportunities for socializing, rather than care. Some, however, may offer respite services—care that is intended to give caregivers a break by providing temporary care to older adults. Since community services tend to be low-cost or free volunteer services, it is wise to investigate community resources first.
		Home Health Care Agencies—These agencies place medical professionals (such as homemakers, home health aides, certified nurses' aides, respite caregivers, therapists and registered nurses) in your home. Almost all agencies offer some type of backup care placement services whether or not you use the agency on a regular basis. Terms and conditions for backup care are usually stipulated in the contract, so be sure to ask what the backup care policy is before signing. Most require you to pre-register; once you've done so, they usually supply backup care on short notice. Some agencies may require 24 to 48 hour advance notice. Be sure you're aware of the costs and procedures involved ahead of time.
		Employment/Placement Agencies—These agencies also place adult care professionals in your home. Unlike home health care agencies, however, these agencies may not automatically provide a backup replacement if you contract with them for a full-time caregiver. Some agencies may supply backup caregivers on an as needed basis as long as you pre-register and provide at least 48-hour advance notice. Policies differ from agency to agency, so ask each about their backup care policy.
		Adult Day Care Centers—These centers are designed for adults who need structure, guidance or supervision during the day. Most offer part- or full-time services and some may offer backup care for adults who don't otherwise attend the programs. Admission policies vary from center to center but most require individuals to be evaluated prior to admittance to ensure that the center can accommodate their needs. If the adult day care center in your area offers backup care, ask if your loved one needs to be evaluated and/or pre-registered, and find out how much advance notice is typically required. These centers typically have scheduled closings (on holidays, for example) or may close due to inclement weather. Therefore, investigate other backup care options in the event that these facilities are unavailable when you need them.
		Friends and Family Members—Ask trusted friends, neighbors and family members if they would be willing to help out in emergency situations. Be honest about your loved one's condition and encourage them to be open about their concerns. Would they prefer to care for your loved one in your home or their own? Would they feel comfortable caring for your loved one if she/he was very ill? Are there any responsibilities they would feel uncomfortable with? Post the names and telephone numbers of those who are willing to help out by your telephone. Have the names of at least three people ready in advance since many will not be available on short notice.
		Employers—A growing number of employers offer sponsored/subsidized backup programs to their workers, so be sure to talk with your Human Resources representative at work about whether such a program is available.

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Media contact: Michael Civiello
LifeCare, Inc.
pr1@lifecare.com
203-291-4170