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At Selectacare, we’re not just another home care provider – we’re a family-run business that treats every client like our own family member. For decades, our warm, compassionate approach has made us a trusted name in home care across the Lower Mainland, bringing professional care with a personal touch to every home we serve.

The Warmth of Family-Centered Care

There’s something special about working with a family-run company. At Selectacare, we understand family values because we live them every day. Our approach to care comes from the heart, combining professional expertise with genuine compassion that you can only find in a family-oriented organization. When you choose us, you’re not just getting care – you’re becoming part of our extended family.

The Magic of Home Sweet Home

Think about your morning routine. That perfectly worn-in armchair where you enjoy your morning coffee. The window where sunlight streams in just right. The garden you’ve tended for years. These aren’t just physical spaces; they’re the fabric of daily life that brings comfort and joy. Our caregivers understand and respect these personal connections, treating your home and routines with the same care they would their own.

Care That Feels Like Family

Your Home, Your Rules

Being family-run means we understand that every family is unique. We take time to know your story, your preferences, and your routines. Want breakfast at 10 AM? Prefer afternoon walks instead of morning ones? Love watching late-night movies? Our flexible care adapts to your lifestyle, not the other way around.

Beyond Basic Care

Our caregivers bring warmth and companionship to every visit. They’re not just professionals; they’re compassionate individuals chosen for their ability to connect with clients on a personal level. Whether sharing stories, working on hobbies together, or simply providing a listening ear, they create meaningful bonds that go beyond basic care.

The Selectacare Family Difference

Personal Touch in Professional Care

As a family business, we take pride in our reputation for reliability and excellence. Our care coordinators know each client personally, and our caregivers become trusted members of your support system. This personal investment in your well-being sets us apart from larger, corporate care providers.

Keeping Families Connected

Home care creates a beautiful bridge between independence and family support. We work closely with your family members, keeping them involved and informed while respecting your independence. Our presence provides peace of mind to loved ones while ensuring you maintain your dignity and autonomy.

Flexible Support for Every Need

Understanding that each family’s needs and budget are different, we offer customizable care solutions. From a few hours of companionship to comprehensive daily support, our services adapt to your changing needs while remaining cost-effective.

Creating Comfort and Security

Our warm, family-oriented approach means we’re attuned to the little things that make a big difference. Whether it’s remembering how you like your tea, knowing your favorite topics of conversation, or understanding your daily routines, we provide care that feels natural and comfortable.

Building Lasting Relationships

As a family-run business, we value long-term relationships with our clients. Many of our caregivers have been with families for years, becoming trusted companions and reliable supports. This continuity of care creates a stable, comfortable environment that enhances well-being and peace of mind. At Selectacare, we believe that combining family values with professional expertise creates the best possible care experience. Our commitment to treating each client like family while maintaining the highest standards of professional care has made us a trusted choice in home care. Your journey of aging shouldn’t mean leaving behind the life you love. With Selectacare’s family-oriented support, your home can continue to be the perfect setting for your golden years, filled with warmth, dignity, and joy. Let our family help take care of yours.

If you have come to the decision that your loved one would benefit from home care services, the next important step is to find a reputable and experienced company. In Toronto and the surrounding regions there are many home care companies offering similar services, but which one do you choose? You of course want the best quality care for your loved one, and for them to feel comfortable with the caregivers being in their home. In this article we will guide you through the process of shortlisting senior care companies in Toronto, offering you valuable insights and considerations to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding their needs

Even before reaching out to any company offering home care services, you will need to determine what care and support your loved one actually needs.

• If it is medical care: such as wound care, medicine management or physical therapy for example, then a company offering more specialist nurses or health professionals will be required.
  If your loved one needs help with daily activities: such as personal grooming, dressing, meal preparation and light housekeeping, then a provider specializing in non-medical services would be the right choice.
• Will it be short-term or long-term: for example, has your loved one just come out of hospital and needs temporary assistance to recover, or will they need ongoing assistance with daily activities.
• What level of assistance will they need: for example, minimal help, like general housekeeping, or more involved care such as bathing and feeding.

Researching local home care providers

Conducting thorough research is the next step. Given the wide range of home care agencies in Toronto, it’s essential to evaluate ones that you are interested in by focusing on key factors.
Do they offer the services you need: consider senior care companies in Toronto that specialize in services that you not only currently need but also future ones you might.

• Experience counts: how long has company been established in the field of home care.
• Can they provide services to your location: can they provide full home care services to your location

Evaluate the Quality of Care

Once you have shortlisted a list of potential senior care agencies it’s time to evaluate their reputation and the quality of care they deliver. You can do this in several ways…

• Check their online reviews: using platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Home Care Ontario website, check out their customer satisfaction reviews.
• Read their client testimonials: their website will be a great place to review a selection of testimonials but do not be afraid to ask the provider for direct testimonials from clients or families they’ve worked with.
• Speak with them: talking to individual elder services company care coordinators will provide you with a deeper understanding of their approach to providing care and how services are managed.

Assess Staff Qualifications

The quality of home care that senior care companies in Toronto provide of course hinges on the actual caregivers themselves. Enquiring about staff and their qualifications is essential.

• What qualifications do they have: ask whether home caregivers have the necessary certifications, such as having Personal Support Worker (PSW) status.
• What about background checks and training: ask the elder care services agency whether all staff have thorough background checks and are provided with ongoing training.

Cost and Payment Options

Home care can be a significant financial commitment, so understanding the cost structure and available funding options is crucial.

• How does their pricing structures work: hourly rates might be appropriate for those needing a few hours of care per day or week, but care packages may be more cost-effective in the long-term.
• Government Funding: perhaps you may be eligible for some publicly funded care services from Ontario’s Home and Community Care Support Services.
• Private insurance policies: may cover certain aspects of home care, especially for short-term or post-operative care. Check with your insurance provider to explore coverage.
• Are there any hidden costs: ask whether there any extra charges for services delivered on weekend or holidays. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs upfront.

Flexibility and Personalization

The flexibility of services offered by home card companies and how tailored the services they provide for individuals are key factors. Keep in mind that your loved one’s needs may change, and care plan should be adaptable.

• Individualized care plans: care plans should be based on individual assessments, rather than being generic service packages.
• Flexibility: good senior care agencies in Toronto will offer flexible scheduling and easy adjustments to the care plan when needed.
• Trial Periods: ask whether a home care company can offer a trial period, which allow you to test out their services before committing to a long-term contract.

Legal and Safety

Make sure to fully review any contracts and legal agreements when choosing a home care company.

• Contracts and Agreements: your agreement should clearly outline the services provided, hours of care, caregiver responsibilities, and the pricing structure.
• Health and Safety Protocols: the provider should have strong health and safety and hygiene measures in place for caregivers.
• Emergency Response: the home care company should have a well-established process for handling emergencies and caregivers trained in first aid, CPR, or other emergency procedures.

Conclusion

Choosing the right home company for home care services in Toronto requires thorough research and careful consideration of your needs. Taking time to check out the company’s reputation, the quality of care, the staff they use, the services offered, flexibility, cost, and safety protocols will help you feel comfortable making an informed choice. Please check out the following article too for questions to ask a homecare company when you ring around.

Selectacare has been providing home care services in Toronto and across the GTA for over four decades. Our home care company offers a range of high quality services, all delivered by our own experienced, dedicated and compassionate caregivers. Why not call us today to discuss your requirements on one of the numbers below. Alternatively, please complete our quick online enquiry form and we will reach out to you!

End of life care is a deeply personal and challenging time, both for those experiencing it and their families too. During these times, ensuring that a loved one remains as comfortable as possible will be the main priority. Family members will of course want to be involved in various aspects of their loved one’s care but will often require the further assistance and support of home care services. Many home care companies offer end of life care services that is provided by experienced and professional caregivers. In this article we look at how home care services can play a crucial role in providing the necessary support in these situations, ensuring comfort, compassion, and dignity.

What Is End-of-Life Home Care?

End-of-life home care is where an individual in the final stages of life chooses to receive the care and support, they need in the comfort of their own homes. This type of home care service aims to enhance the quality of life of the individual, assist in managing any symptoms and provide emotional support. End of life home care services emphasizes on comfort rather than curative treatment, allowing individuals to live their last days as peacefully as possible in a familiar setting.

Types of Services Provided

The types of services provided depend of course on the unique needs of an individual, but can include…

• Pain and Symptom Management: where trained caregivers and healthcare professionals, such as nurses and palliative care specialists, focus on managing pain, breathing difficulties, nausea, and other symptoms that can affect comfort.
• Personal Care Assistance: where caregivers assist in daily activities that include bathing, grooming, toileting, and dressing; ensuring that the individual’s hygiene and comfort are maintained with dignity.
• Emotional and Spiritual Support: this aspect is often overlooked but is crucial during end-of-life care. Home care providers may collaborate with counsellors, chaplains, or spiritual advisors to support the individual and their family through this emotional journey.
• Companionship: loneliness can be a major concern at this stage and many caregivers also provide companionship to individuals; engaging in conversations or activities that provide a much-needed sense of connection.
• Respite Care for Family Members: family members will often be under great emotional strain during this difficult time. End of life caregivers can step in whenever required to offer respite care that allows family members some rest or time to attend to other responsibilities.
• Coordination with Hospice Services: home care providers often work closely with hospice teams, ensuring a seamless approach to end-of-life care, particularly for managing more complex medical needs.

Benefits of Home Care at the End of Life

Receiving care and support services at home has many benefits for individuals and their families…

• Comfort of Home: many individuals will choose to spend their final days in a familiar environment surrounded by family, friends, and cherished memories. End of life home care services enables this, allowing people to pass away peacefully in their own space.
• Personalized Care Plans: home care companies will tailor end of life care plans to the unique needs of each individual, allowing for adjustments as symptoms and conditions change.
• Cost-Effective Option: compared to staying in a hospital or care facility, home care can often be a more affordable option, especially when the focus is on comfort rather than intensive medical interventions.
• Support for Family Caregivers: professional end of life home care services can relieve family caregivers of some responsibilities, providing them with emotional support and guidance during a very challenging time.

Choosing the Right Home Care Provider

Many home care companies in Toronto and surrounding region offer end of life care home care services. Choosing the right home care provider for your loved one will be essential. Key considerations include…

• Experience in End-of-Life Care: a home care company should have a strong track record and understanding of the complexities involved in end-of-life home care.
• Compassionate Approach: at this difficult time families should look for caregivers who demonstrate empathy and a genuine commitment to the well-being of their clients.
• Flexibility in Services: end of life care providers should offer a range of services that can be adapted as needs change.
• Positive References: hearing from other families and reading online reviews from others who have used their services can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Supporting the Family During the Process

End of life home caregivers not only provide their services to individuals in the last stages of life but can also provide much needed support the entire family during this time. Having an experienced professional there who can provide guidance on what to expect during the final stages, talk to about concerns and also help prepare for the transition will be a huge help. This holistic approach ensures that everyone involved has the support they need.

Closing thoughts

Home care services for those at the end of life provide more than just care and support, but a compassionate presence during a deeply emotional time. By allowing individuals to remain in their homes and focus on comfort and connection, home care can help bring peace to both patients and their families, making the last phase of life as meaningful as possible.

Selectacare can provide your loved one with end of life care services with compassion and dignity. We are here to assist you during this difficult time to ensure that your loved one is as comfortable as possible. Please reach out to us to discuss your requirements on one of the numbers below. Alternatively, please complete our quick online enquiry form and we will reach out to you.

At some point, many families across Canada will have to face the decision of how best to take care of the health and wellbeing needs of an elderly loved one. Two of the main options that many of these families will consider are home care or nursing home care. Each of these has its own set of advantages dependent on the level of care and support someone requires. In this article we explore the benefits of both home care and nursing home care. Understanding which care service would work best for a loved one can help families feel more comfortable about making this important decision.

Home Care Services

As the name suggests, home care services are provided directly to an individual in their own home. There are many home care companies across Canada that specialize in these kind of home care services which over the years have become increasingly popular. Let’s explore some of the benefits of using home care services…

• Personalized Care: Home care provides a personalized approach to caregiving that is tailored to the specific needs of an individual. Home caregivers focus solely on that person in their own home, providing a customized care plan that caters to the unique requirements of that patient. Typical activities home caregivers provide include assistance with all aspects of personal care, meal plans, mobility issues and light housekeeping duties.
• Comfort and Familiarity: Receiving care at home can greatly benefit mental and emotional health. The individual feels more comfortable surrounded by their personal belongings and cherished memories. Being more relaxed in a familiar environment they may also be more receptive to receiving care and support. Individuals receiving home care services often benefit from faster recovery, improved wellbeing and a better overall quality of life.
• Family Involvement: With home care services, family members can still play an active part providing care and support to their loved one too. The provision of home caregiving services can be flexible and fit in with family caregiving. Working in conjunction with home caregivers, family members that provide care often feel more supported too, which can greatly assist in maintaining their own physical and emotional well-being.
• Cost-Effectiveness: In many cases, using home care services for an elderly loved one can be more cost-effective than nursing home care. While nursing homes in Canada provide comprehensive services, the costs can be high, especially when an individual requires a long-term stay. Home care allows families to choose specific services at a frequency that suits them, which can potentially reduce overall expenses.
• Independence and Dignity: Receiving care at home offers a sense of independence for an individual that a nursing home may not provide. Loved ones can continue to maintain their routines, make their own decisions, and live with dignity, which is hugely important in retaining their self-esteem and mental health.

Nursing Home Care

Nursing homes are residential facilities widely found across Canada where elderly people stay to receive the care and support they require. These establishments provide personal care, medical care, meals, housekeeping services and social and recreational activities to residents. Let’s explore some of the main benefits of choosing to receive Nursing Home care…

• 24/7 Medical Supervision: One of the main benefits of Nursing homes is that staff are onsite to provide round-the-clock medical and nursing care. This level of available care is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe health conditions or those who require constant monitoring, as it ensures immediate attention in case of emergencies.
• Access to Specialized Services: Nursing homes across Canada often provide residents with access to a range of specialized services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized nursing care. These services can be extremely valuable for those individuals who require rehabilitation or specific medical treatments that might be challenging to provide at home.
• Social Interaction: Many nursing homes offer their residents plenty of opportunities for social engagement. Organized activities, events, and communal living arrangements can all assist in maintaining both the physical and mental well-being of seniors. Continued socialization is proven to help combat loneliness and depression, which are both common issues experienced by many seniors.
• Safety and Emergency Support: In-house staff at nursing homes are equipped to handle emergencies and are trained to respond to medical crises and other urgent situations. Having this in place offers peace of mind to families, knowing that their loved one is in a safe environment with immediate access to any nursing or medical help they require.

Cost Comparison

Choosing home care services for an elderly loved one can often be the most cost-effective solution for many families, as specific services can be chosen as and when required. In contrast, nursing home care has a fixed cost structure. This will be higher than home care, as the nursing home will be providing a comprehensive range of services as standard. When choosing from both care service solutions it’s essential to look the benefits of each as well the cost implication for short-term or long-term care.

Quality of Life

Of course, choosing a care solution that provides the best quality of life for an elderly loved one will be a major part of deciding which route to take. Home care often allows for more freedom, independence, and comfort; an elderly person remains in familiar surroundings and can continue with any routines or activities they enjoy. Home care can also work in tandem with family caregiving, which can benefit both the patient and family members. Nursing home care provides a more structured and supervised environment, which may be the best option for those with more serious health concerns. Residing in a nursing home also provides seniors with the opportunity to socialize with others and participate in activities and events.

Closing thoughts

Deciding between home care or nursing home care is ultimately a personal decision that should be made based on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Both options offer unique benefits, from the personalized comfort of home care to the comprehensive medical support provided by nursing homes. Families should be encouraged to explore all their options, consult with healthcare professionals, and consider both financial and emotional factors in order to make the best choice for their loved ones.

Selectacare has been providing home care services across the GTA for over 40 years. If you feel that home caregiving services would work better for your loved one, please call us today to discuss your requirements on one of the numbers below. Alternatively, please complete our quick online enquiry form and we will reach out to you!

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disease that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. The disorder primarily impacts older adults, although early-onset Alzheimer’s can occur in people under 65. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s range from mild to severe, dependent on how far the disease has progressed. Some of the main signs of cognitive decline in a person due to Alzheimer’s include…

• Confusion – being confused about simple things, such as where they are and what time it is
• Communication issues – difficulties in holding a two-way conversation with someone
• Continued forgetfulness – forgetting where commonplace items are or getting lost in familiar places
• Inability to complete tasks – being unable to complete familiar tasks they once could do
• Anger outbursts – having sudden outbursts of anger for no apparent reason
• Poor decision making – making poor decisions that are completely out of character
• Social withdrawal – backing away from people they love or activities they once enjoyed.

As the disease progresses, symptoms in a person can become worse resulting in making it increasingly difficult for them to perform daily activities, communicate effectively, or recognize loved ones.

The challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally and physically demanding. Because of the condition’s unpredictable nature, a person’s gradual decline will often require round-the-clock supervision to ensure their safety and wellbeing. This can be overwhelming and challenging for family members who will need to balance care responsibilities with their own personal and professional lives.

How home care services can help

Home care services play a vital role in supporting families and individuals affected by Alzheimer’s. These services are provided in the comfort of patient’s homes and can assist in making caregiving less stressful. Care is provided by fully trained professionals that are experienced delivering care and support to individuals with Alzheimer’s. Such home care services can range from basic assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, to more advanced care, including medication management and monitoring for safety.

Types of home care services

There are a range of home care services available in Ontario for families of loved ones with Alzheimer’s. These include…

• Personal Care Services: Which focus on helping patients with daily living activities, such as grooming, dressing, bathing, and feeding. Home caregivers are trained to assist gently and respectfully, ensuring the dignity of the person is always maintained. Home care givers can also provide much needed companionship too; individuals with Alzheimer’s often suffer social isolation due to memory loss and communication difficulties.
• Skilled Nursing Care: Individuals with more advanced Alzheimer’s will often require skilled nursing care as well. Registered nurses (RNs) can provide medical care in a patient’s home, such as wound care, administering medications, and managing any other health conditions.
• Respite Care: Homecare companies can also offer respite care to family caregivers. This service provides temporary relief for those caregivers, allowing them time to rest, recharge, or attend to personal matters. Respite care services can be arranged for a few hours, a day, or even overnight, giving family members peace of mind that their loved one remains in safe hands.

Benefits of Home Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

There are several main benefits for Alzheimer’s patients receiving care services in their own homes. These include…

• Being in a familiar environment: Being in a familiar home setting can help reduce anxiety and confusion for those with Alzheimer’s. The comfort of their own surroundings can assist in improved mental well-being and provide a sense of security.
• Receiving personalized care: Home care services offer a very personalized approach tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each patient. This individualized care plan can adapt to the evolving care requirements that Alzheimer’s presents.
• Improving quality of life: With home caregiving services focused on enhancing daily living, patients can enjoy a higher quality of life. Activities, routines, and care plans are designed to engage and stimulate cognitive functions, promoting emotional and mental health.

Closing thoughts

Home care services offer a compassionate and effective solution for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their families. By providing specialized care in the comfort of the home, these services help maintain a sense of normalcy, independence, and dignity for those affected by the disease. You can find out more about Alzheimer’s at the Alzheimer Society of Canada information portal website.

For over 40 years Selectacare has been providing care and support to Alzheimer’s patients and their families. If you feel you need extra help for a loved one please call us today on one of the numbers below. Alternatively, please complete our quick online enquiry form and we will reach out to you!

In our last article we looked at the role of Personal Support Workers, and how across Canada there continues to be a growing demand for their services. Much of this demand comes from seniors with care requirements, who choose to retain independent living in their own homes. Having a Personal Support Worker’s assistance at home can greatly enhance a senior’s quality of life. In this article we list some reasons why…

Personal care

An elderly person may find it increasingly difficult to undertake certain aspects of their personal care at home. Home caregivers can step in to help with all aspects of personal care and hygiene, including bathing, dressing and grooming. Assistance with these matters can be a great relief and comfort to an elderly person, as well as helping them maintain their dignity and independence.

Mobility assistance

Seniors with mobility issues may find the most common tasks difficult to do in their own homes. Home caregivers can provide whatever mobility assistance is required, for example transferring an individual from their bed to a chair, using mobility aids, even helping someone as they take their daily walk.

Help with housekeeping

Maintaining a clean and organized home may become challenging for a senior. A home caregiver can step in to help with light housekeeping duties, such as washing up, cleaning and laundry. A clean, tidy, and comfortable home helps lift someone’s spirits and contributes to enhancing their quality of life.

Companionship

Loneliness and social isolation are issues that many seniors can experience in their own homes. Home caregivers not only play a part in providing firsthand care and support to seniors but can also provide much-needed companionship too. This emotional support can play a huge role in improving mental health and overall well-being.

Better health outcomes

Having one-on-one care from a home caregiver can have a hugely positive impact on a senior’s life, as the caregiver’s attention is solely focused on them. The caregiver can keep a close eye on the senior’s health, make sure that they eat nutritionally rich meals and adhere to any medicine and health routines that have been prescribed by professionals.

Lifestyle continuity

A big benefit of having home caregivers is that seniors can continue living their lives, not only in their home, but socially too. Being able to keep connections with their local community and friend groups can be hugely important in maintaining mental well-being. Home caregivers can also accompany seniors outside the home to these social engagements.

Providing stand-in support

Many seniors rely on family members to assist with their care and support. This can lead to seniors feeling over reliant on those family members that are imposing their needs. This is where home caregivers can assist to give family members some respite and alleviate any guilt that seniors may be experiencing.

Tailormade care

Each senior will have their own individual care requirements. Perhaps they just need assistance with getting up and getting ready in the morning, or maybe they need some extra assistance at times to temporarily alleviate care duties from family members. By using home care services, caregivers can be there exactly when help is required to perform whatever care and support activities are needed. A homecare provider can tailor make a care plan that fully meets the unique requirements of an individual.

Closing thoughts

The above demonstrates the many ways that home caregivers can enhance the quality of life for seniors; allowing them to retain their lifestyle and independence. Caregivers can provide so much more than standard care to seniors, but much -needed companionship too. Their role not only assists with physical help, but emotional well-being too.

If you have found the above interesting and feel like you need a little extra help living at home, call Selectacare today on one of the numbers below. Alternatively, please complete our quick online enquiry form and we will reach out to you!

The majority of our amazing caregiver team here at Selectacare are Personal Support Workers, or PSWs for short. Home care companies like us recruit Personal Support Workers to enable us to deliver home care and support services to individuals across the GTA who require assistance because of their age, illness or disability. In this article we take a closer look at the role of a Personal Support Worker, what duties they perform, the qualifications they require to do their job in Canada, and where they can work.

Typical PSW role:

Personal Support Workers provide a range of care and support activities to individuals in their own homes, or in the long-term care facilities they are residing in. Their role is not to be confused with Registered Nurses, who follow a different education path and scope of practice. Typical care and support duties that Personal Support Workers undertake can include the following…

• Assisting with Activities of Daily Living – where individuals need help with all aspects of personal care and hygiene, toileting and dressing.
• Help with mobility – where individuals with mobility needs require help getting in and out of bed, sitting and standing, walking and general movement.
• Help with meals – assisting individuals at mealtimes when needed, including the preparation of meals.
• Companionship – many Personal Support Workers also provide much needed companionship and emotional support for individuals they care for.
• Adhering to medication routines – assisting individuals follow and comply with any medication routines prescribed by health and medical professionals.
• Help monitoring health – assisting individuals monitor health issues and reporting concerns to necessary health professionals.

Training requirements for a PSW:

Individuals interested in a career as a Personal Support Worker will typically undertake a PSW program. These programs are widely available across the country at certified colleges and other institutions. Candidates will need to successfully complete an 8-to-9-month course, which covers both practical elements in clinical settings and classroom work. The exam at the end of the course will depend on which province or territory the individual is keen to seek employment in.

Where a PSW can work:

Once fully qualified in Canada, a Personal Support Worker is then able to apply for positions in various healthcare settings. These typically include the following…

• Providing In-Home Care – where a Personal Support Worker can provide a range of care and support duties to clients in their own home. They may choose to work for a Home Care Company such as Selectacare who offers this service.
• Working in Long-Term Care – where a Personal Support Worker provides care and support to clients in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes.
• Within Hospital Wards – where a Personal Support Worker works alongside other health professionals to deliver care and support. PSWs roles are very much prevalent in rehabilitation, palliative care and geriatric wards in hospitals.
• With Community Health Agencies – where a Personal Support Worker is employed within an organization that provides community healthcare services to individuals.

The Demand for PSWs in Canada

As the ageing population continues to grow, coupled with more and more seniors wanting to receive any care and support they need in their own homes, the demand for Personal Support Workers has been steadily increasing in Canada. Home care is preferred by many seniors as it is a more affordable healthcare option, plus it allows them to continue independent living in their own homes. Personal Support Workers step in to satisfy this growing trend for home care and support.

Selectacare PSWs

Selectacare is delighted to have on board some of the best Personal Support Workers to be found in the GTA. Our core team of PSW caregivers are passionate about delivering the best possible care to individuals. That is why Selectacare has become one of the most preferred homecare companies in Toronto and the surrounding region.

Across Canada there continues to be a growing demand in home care for the elderly. Receiving care from a home care company is understandably a preferred option for many, as it allows a person to continue living in their own home and retain their independence. Home caregivers can provide assistance with a whole range of activities to support and improve the quality of life of elderly people. Many home care companies can also provide caregivers that can accompany clients on appointments outside of the home environment too.

Seniors receiving care at home will still often need to attend outside appointments, such as medical visits, physical therapy sessions or dental check-ups. Often the case, they will also need a family member to be with them for these appointments. Situations occur where family members simply cannot take time off work to accompany their loved ones; this is where home caregivers can step in to help out. Here we look a little closer at the benefits of using home caregivers in these situations.

Enhanced Safety

Caregivers can ensure that clients get safely to and from their health and medical appointments. They can be there to assist seniors that have mobility issues and help out to arrange suitable transportation to and from the destination. Large medical facilities can often be overwhelming to navigate for elderly people, and having a caregiver be there to guide them brings great comfort and less stress.

Emotional Support

Attending any kind of medical appointment can cause worry and anxiety; the presence of a familiar person to sit with and talk to can significantly reduce this. A caregiver’s companionship is invaluable for many seniors waiting for their health appointment, especially if there are potentially long wait times. Just knowing that a caregiver is there can make any health or medical appointment more tolerable for an elderly person.

Communication and Advocacy

At health and medical appointments, effective communication between a senior and their healthcare providers is vital. When needed, a caregivers can help articulate the client’s needs and concerns to ensure that they receive the appropriate care. Additionally, a caregiver can also make note of any advice and instructions the health provider gives to a client. This helps ensure that after the appointment these are understood and followed correctly.

Care compliance

When a family member cannot take time out to accompany a loved one, the health or medical appointment may be cancelled or postponed. Both can have ramifications further down the line for an elderly person, especially if their health condition is being closely monitored by health professionals. Having the option of having a caregiver as a medical escort means that seniors are more likely to adhere to appointment schedules and follow-up care.

Other outside activities

It is not just health and medical appointments – home caregivers can also play an integral part in a senior person’s other outside life activities. Going for walks, visits to the grocery store and attending community groups are just some examples of where caregivers can accompany seniors. Caregivers can provide care, support and companionship in these situations and help make these away from home experiences more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Elderly people often have numerous appointments outside the home that are crucial for maintaining their health and quality of life. When family members are not available, attending these appointments alone can be daunting. Mobility issues, lack of confidence and anxiety are just a few of the challenges they face when facing making visits outside their home. This is where the presence of a caregiver becomes invaluable. Having home caregivers as an alternative solution in accompanying elderly clients to appointments is beneficial for a number of reasons. This includes a person’s safety, emotional well-being, companionship and compliance in receiving health and medical care when needed.

A Selectacare home caregiver can be there as a medical escort to accompany and support you or a loved one to health and medical appointments. We can also be there for you for other activities you want to attend outside the home. Call us today to find out more!

Being a caregiver for a family member can be extremely rewarding and create an even closer relationship with that loved one. On the other hand, the constant pressure of being caregiver can often be exhausting, which can lead to stress and frustration, and subsequently to guilt and sadness. Many caregivers often experience burn-out, a situation where both their mental and physical health begin to suffer. This can leave the caregiver feeling unable to cope with their task in effectively performing care duties.

Recognizing when a caregiver needs help and support is crucial for both their well-being and that of the person being looked after. In this article we look at some of the common tell-tale signs that a caregiver is being overwhelmed by their role and may need some help and support…

Physical exhaustion

Being physically exhausted is one of the most common signs that a caregiver is not coping well. If a caregiver appears constantly tired and is experiencing frequent or recurring illnesses, these are both clear indicators that their body is under too much stress. Caregiving can be very physically demanding, involving lifting and moving activities. Ignoring the signs that a caregiver is physically exhausted can lead on to more serious health issues.

Emotional burnout

If a caregiver finds themselves feeling emotionally drained, isolated, stressed and anxious, they may well be experiencing emotional burnout. Caregiving can be draining on someone’s mental well-being. This can lead on to feelings of frustration, sadness, and even resentment for the person being looked after. It is essential that caregivers keep a check on their mental well-being and acknowledge and address any issues arising.

Self neglect

Many caregivers can easily slip into the pattern of putting their loved ones’ needs above their own. When this happens their personal health and well-being begin to suffer. Common signs of this include the caregiver skipping meals, neglecting exercise, neglecting their appearance and sacrificing sleep. If a caregiver is not taking care of their own basic needs, it’s a sign that they need help. Maintaining self care is a necessity for being able to care for others.

Isolation

Social isolation can quickly creep up on caregivers as they devote more and more of their time to caregiving duties. Over time they can lose touch with friends and other family members, miss social events and feel very much disconnected from their community. All of these are red flags that the caregiver is becoming isolated. Being isolated has a hugely negative impact on mental wellbeing. Maintaining social connections and engaging in activities outside the care environment is essential.

Irritability and anger

When a caregiver finds themselves becoming increasingly irritable and angry, it’s a sure sign that things are not right and that they are becoming overwhelmed in their care duties. Of course, having these feelings can cause the caregiver resentment and affect their relationship with the person being cared for, as well as with other family members. It’s important for caregivers to recognize the signs that they are not coping emotionally, and to seek out help and support.

Work performance decline

Many caregivers will try to balance their care duties alongside any employment they have. This can be particularly challenging and can lead to any combination of the tell-tale signs listed above. When a caregiver cannot cope, there is often a marked notice in their levels of work performance and in increased absenteeism. Luckily, many employers now offer support programs for their employees who are also caregivers.

Health Problems

Both physical and mental health issues only get worse if not addressed. Common unaddressed health issues caregivers often complain about include frequent headaches, back and joint pain, as well as high blood pressure. These health issues can easily escalate to much more serious conditions if not addressed. It is essential that caregivers continue to practice self care by going for regular check-ups with their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

These are the main signs that all is not well with a caregiver, and that they need help and support. Too often caregivers put their own needs second to the person they are caring for. Ignoring their own physical and mental health can lead to burnout, resulting in them not being able to affectively provide their care duties. Seeking assistance is not a sign of failure but a necessary part of being an effective and compassionate caregiver.

At Selectacare we understand how passionate and dedicated family caregivers are. When needed, we can also be there to assist in caregiving for your loved one at any level required. Why not talk to us today to see how we can help both you and the person you are caring for.