How to Find Caregivers for a Paralyzed Person

If your loved one has sustained a paralyzing injury, it is important that they receive quality medical care. Most families are not equipped to properly care for a paralyzed loved one, therefore it is necessary to know where to go to find the right care. Remember the following when searching for a a caregiver for a paralyzed person.

Instructions

1. Speak to the doctors and nurses who treated your loved one at the time of the injury. They are familiar with the case and can refer you to quality care providers.

2. Call a paralyzed patient support group. There are online and offline support groups that can offer valuable information as to where to look and who to call to get a caregiver for your paralyzed loved one.

3. Contact your state's Department of Health to find out what your state's licensing requirements are and to obtain a listing of home health care service agencies. Call the agencies to find out which ones specialize in paralyzed patients.

4. Evaluate all references. Paralyzed patients, depending on the extent of their paralysis, may be vulnerable. Put your mind at ease by thoroughly checking out all references and doing a complete background check.

Tips & Warnings

• Having the right credentials to care for a paralyzed patient is a must, but above and beyond that, the right personality fit between the caregiver and the patient is important. A caregiver will spend many hours working intimately with the patient. Be sure to include the patient in the caregiver interview process if at all possible.

• If you can, install a security system to view how the caregiver is taking care of your loved one when you're not present. It will put your mind at ease.