My dad is 97 and lives alone. He does mostly everything himself, but could use some help. Where do I start my search?

If he is presently on MediCal ask his caseworker about in home help.

Contact social services for his county to see if he can have an in-home needs assessment and possibly qualify for some services. I don't live in California, but the services that were provided through my MIL's county here in MN was not chores or companionship, it was light housekeeping, food prep and hygiene. But, each state and county can have different offerings. If your Dad doesn't have a PoA assigned, then social services may get him on their radar as a vulnerable adult. Without a PoA he would possibly wind up with a court-appointed legal guardian if/when he becomes unable to do his ADLs or is a danger to himself or others. Then the guardian will make all decisions with independent authority. Family may be consulted before making decisions for him but ultimately the legal guardian will be in control of his care and affairs. I'm hoping he has a PoA. But our family's personal experience with an assigned guardian was actualy a good one and a solution that worked in our situation.

Ksieg57, welcome to the forum. Please fill out the Profile sheet which will give us more information to help with your Dad's situation.


Are you checking to see if AgingCare sends out caregivers? If yes, no it doesn't. This is a forum of current caregivers and of caregivers who are no longer caregiving but have great suggestions for the aging journey. You can ask us any questions you have about how to help your Dad.


AgingCare can help with the progress of finding a company to help you. Scroll down the bottom of the page and on your left you will see "In-Home Care", click on that.