When it comes to caring for aging loved ones at home, many families don’t realize just how many levels of support are available. 

Malina Rivers, RN and Chief Operations Officer at BrightStar Care of Charlottesville, explained how to break it down. Whether someone needs simple companionship or skilled medical care, Rivers says the best place to start is with a professional assessment. 

“We actually do that free of charge,” Rivers said. “We’ll come out with an RN, come into your home, assess your needs, speak with your physician, and make sure we’re getting you the correct level of care.” 

 

It’s not always 24-hour nursing 

Rivers often hears families say, “We need 24-hour care,” but that level of support may not be necessary, or financially feasible. 

Instead, many people benefit from companion or personal care, which might include light housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, and support with bathing or dressing. Even just having someone to talk to can make a huge difference. 

“People who live alone die about a decade sooner than someone who has a companion in their home,” Rivers said. 

 

Specialized care for Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Caring for someone with cognitive decline brings unique challenges. Even basic tasks like eating or bathing can become confusing or distressing for the person receiving care. That’s why BrightStar requires all staff to complete dementia certification and immersive empathy training. 

Rivers said the goal is to create true empathy among care aides and nurses who work with individuals facing complex conditions. 

The organization even offers free “virtual dementia tours” for local businesses and families who want to better understand what a person with dementia experiences. 

 

Start with the right support 

Many families wait too long to seek help or assume in-home care is only for end-of-life situations. But having the right kind of support early on can prevent crises, reduce stress, and allow families to spend more quality time together. 

Rivers encourages anyone considering care to reach out. 

“Let us come to your home, see what your home looks like, we can perform a really good assessment,” she said. That’s how they determine what care someone really needs. 

 

To schedule a free assessment or learn more about available services, visit BrightStarCare.com or contact the Charlottesville office directly.