My mom has Alzheimer's that isn't too bad yet, but she can't be alone. Initially, she had a great…read morecaregiver through this agency, Texas Home Health (owned by AccentCare), but that woman moved out of town to pursue a nursing career.
It's been trouble ever since. The first replacement they hired lived clear across town and was either late or didn't show. They replaced her, but the replacement also was a no-show on day one of the job. They had to have someone fill in, but she was on another job and couldn't get there right away. One of the features of Alzheimer's is anxiety, and my poor mom was alone and afraid until this lady showed up. I am surprised they dont have a backup on call for these things, which happen.
Finally, Texas Home Health hired a new care giver, but she flat out refused to water a few bushes right in the front of the house. All she has to do is move the hose 10 feet and let it run a while, then move it over after 30 minutes. I confirmed with the manager that they will do simple light duties, specifically watering plants, laundry, changing sheets, etc. Mom says the girl spends all her time on the phone, and has no people skills. I have spoken, briefly, to this young woman, and she's kind of sullen and definitely not self-directed. She is basically a warm body who is a baby sitter. My mom asked her where else she's worked, and about her interests. Anything, just to get the conversation going. She told her she's only 22, and this is her first job in this field. I know that when Texas Home Health hired her she was working at my parents' home within a week. This means she's not even trained! That is evident in that she didn't even seem to know how to properly make a bed. I doubt she even has first aid training. It's a good thing my father handles her meds, because I would not feel comfortable having her do that.
In her favor is the fact that she does show up regularly and is on time. I just don't think she has any enthusiasm for this job.
Home health care is a growth field, obviously, as we have a large aging population that will only increase. It's expensive, with the average cost being $20/hr. with a minimum of 4 hours per visit. Out of that amount, it seems the actual care givers are paid little more than minimum wage. For the cost of the service, you would hope that they would provide someone who at least has experience, an interest in caring for others and basic skills.
I know these are low wage jobs, but still. What ever happened to pride in a job well done, and the satisfaction of helping others? We are looking at other agencies. At a minimum, care givers need to be first aid certified, and trained. I would look elsewhere.