Need a caregiver for an elderly person? Here’s how to make the right decision

Caring for an elderly family member is one of the most sensitive decisions a family can make. When you notice that a parent, grandmother, or grandfather can no longer manage daily activities independently, it’s natural to feel concerned, responsible, emotional, and a bit overwhelmed. The question arises: is it time to find a caregiver for an elderly person?

Below is a guide to help you understand when it’s truly time to seek professional care, what that support includes, and how to choose someone you can trust.

When is a caregiver truly needed?

Older adults often don’t want to admit they need help, and families usually realize too late that the situation has exceeded their abilities. If you recognize some of these signs, it’s time to consider home care for seniors:

• The elderly person struggles with mobility, has an unsteady gait, or falls more often
• They forget medication or have chronic conditions requiring constant supervision
• They skip meals or eat poorly
• They are unable to maintain personal hygiene or keep their home tidy
• You, as a family member, feel overwhelmed and afraid something might happen while you’re not there

A professional caregiver at home helps prevent risks and provides safety - for both the elderly person and the family.

What does home care for seniors include?

Home care is not simply “watching over someone.” It is a comprehensive service that contributes to a dignified and safe life for an elderly person in their own home.

The most common caregiver responsibilities include:

1. Assistance with personal hygiene and dressing - Bathing, grooming, changing clothes, skin care, shaving—everything that helps the elderly person feel clean and comfortable.
2. Medication management and reminders - Many seniors have multiple diagnoses and medications. A caregiver ensures medications are taken on time.
3. Meal preparation and light household support - Cooking, serving meals, light cleaning, and maintaining a hygienic living environment.
4. Assistance with mobility and exercises - From walks to light exercises recommended by a physiotherapist—all to preserve physical condition.
5. Companionship and emotional support - Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges for older adults. Conversation, shared activities, walks, or simply being present make a significant difference.
6. Accompanying the elderly to doctor’s appointments - Navigating the healthcare system can be stressful. Caregivers provide both logistical and emotional support.

Why do most families choose home care for seniors?

Older adults feel safest in their own homes. That’s where their memories, routines, and sense of control are. That’s why home care is the best option when you want to prolong your loved one’s independence while also having peace of mind.

The biggest advantages:

• The elderly person stays in a familiar environment
• They maintain dignity and a sense of usefulness
• Families gain stability and peace of mind
• Falls, injuries, and health deterioration are prevented
• The caregiver provides individualized care—something difficult to achieve in nursing homes

How to find the right caregiver?

This is usually the hardest step. The quality of the caregiver directly impacts the quality of life of the elderly person. Here are a few guidelines:

Check experience and references

The caregiver should have experience working with seniors, especially with diagnoses such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, cardiac or neurological conditions.

Check qualifications

There is a difference between a domestic helper and a professional caregiver. Healthcare workers and trained caregivers provide a higher level of care.

Personality matters as much as knowledge

Empathy, patience, and calmness are essential qualities when working with elderly people.

Define responsibilities clearly

Agree from the beginning on what is expected—from hygiene and medication support to cooking and companionship.

How can NANA Prime help?

Finding a reliable caregiver is often stressful. That’s why we created Nana Prime - the first online platform in the region that connects families with verified caregivers, nurses, therapists, and healthcare professionals.

On the platform, you can:

• Browse caregiver profiles with experience and references
• Find professional home care for seniors - from basic assistance to specialized medical support
• Book care quickly and securely
• Receive support from our team at every step

Our mission is simple: to help seniors live better, safer, and more dignified lives - while giving families peace of mind.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about hiring a caregiver for an elderly person, you’ve likely already reached the point where support is necessary. This decision is not a sign of weakness - it’s an act of love and responsibility.

With the right caregiver, your parent or grandparent can continue living in their own home, with the routines they cherish and the professional support they need.

And you can finally feel confident knowing you are not alone in this important mission.

If you’re ready to find care that fits your family’s needs, Nana Prime is here to support you.