Preparation is the key when providing care for a loved one. As parents grow older, they face challenges that their adult children may not know how to address.

The children may support their parents’ desire to continue living independently, but have concerns about their safety and well-being. One way to help resolve these conflicting emotions, and determine if the parents need assistance, is through a home care assessment.

A home care assessment is a comprehensive review of a person’s mental, physical, environmental and financial condition. This helps to establish his or her ability to remain safely independent and identifies risks and ways to reduce them.

Professional home care assessments can take a few hours to several days and vary depending on the level of care needed. All home care assessments include a thorough review of your loved one’s physical and mental health; medication use; daily routine; home and community safety; support system; appearance and hygiene; finances and personal interests.