Licensed in Personal Care
Agencies are regulated to provide quality service
Occupational therapy (OT) is a holistic, dynamic health care profession dedicated to helping people engage in meaningful occupations or activities to promote and enhance their overall quality of life. Occupations consist of any daily activity that occurs at any point during the day and holds value for the individual. Simply put, occupations include anything that occupies your time. Examples of occupations include bathing, dressing, eating, driving, working, going to school, social interaction, participating in sports and leisure activities, and even sleep.
How does occupational therapy help people?
In-home care has become an essential service for many seniors who wish to age in place. These services offer seniors the opportunity to receive personal care and assistance in their own homes, rather than having to move to a nursing home or assisted living facility. While in-home care can be provided by individuals, it is important to use a Louisiana Department of Health licensed in personal care agency.
The first reason why it is important to use a licensed in personal care agency is that they are regulated by the state of Louisiana. These agencies must meet certain standards and regulations to obtain and maintain their license. This means that they are held accountable for the care they provide and must adhere to certain protocols. This provides peace of mind for both the senior and their family members, knowing that the care provided is of a certain quality.
Secondly, licensed in personal care agencies are required to perform background checks on their employees. This means that the caregivers who come into your home have been thoroughly vetted and have no criminal history. This is important for the safety and security of the senior receiving care.
Thirdly, licensed in personal care agencies are required to have liability insurance. This means that if something were to happen to the senior while under the care of the agency, there is insurance in place to cover any damages. This protects both the senior and the agency.
Fourthly, licensed in personal care agencies provide training for their caregivers. This means that they are knowledgeable on how to provide quality care to seniors. They are trained on how to assist with activities of daily living, medication management and other important tasks. This ensures that the senior is receiving care from someone who is qualified and capable.
Fifthly, licensed in personal care agencies provide supervision and monitoring of their caregivers. This means that someone is overseeing the care being provided and can step in if there are any issues. This provides an added layer of protection for the senior receiving care.
Sixthly, licensed in personal care agencies provide continuity of care. This means that if a caregiver is unable to provide care for any reason, the agency will provide a replacement caregiver. This ensures that the senior is not left without care.
Seventhly, licensed in personal care agencies provide flexibility in care. This means that the agency can provide care on an as-needed basis, whether it be a few hours a day, a few days a week or full-time care. This allows the senior to receive the care they need, when they need it.
Lastly, licensed in personal care agencies provide peace of mind for family members. Knowing that their loved one is receiving quality care from a licensed agency can alleviate stress and worry. It allows family members to focus on spending quality time with their loved one, rather than worrying about their care.
In conclusion, using a Louisiana Department of Health licensed in personal care agency is important for the safety, security and well-being of seniors receiving in-home care. These agencies provide quality care, trained caregivers, liability insurance, supervision and monitoring, continuity of care, flexibility and peace of mind for family members. It is important to do your research and choose an agency that is licensed and meets your specific needs.
Keith Carter is the CEO/administrator of Always Best Care of NW Louisiana, 4700 Line Avenue, Suite 111, Shreveport, Louisiana 71106. Call 318-424-5300 for more information.
