When care needs change, it is common not to know what type of help is needed or where to start.
Changes may be gradual or sudden. A recent illness, fall, hospital discharge, increasing memory concerns, or caregiver strain can make daily routines feel unstable. At this stage, families often need orientation rather than immediate permanent decisions.
This page provides structured guidance for reviewing common care pathways and identifying appropriate next steps.
Families frequently reach this stage when:
• A parent or loved one can no longer manage safely at home
• A recent illness, fall, or hospital stay has changed daily needs
• Caregiving responsibilities have increased unexpectedly
• Supervision or medication management has become more complex
• The appropriate level of care is unclear
Needs at this stage may be temporary, evolving, or uncertain.
At this point, families often review several possible directions before deciding what to do.
Short-term in-home assistance (days or weeks)
→ Review Fall at Home or Caregiver Strain
Ongoing daily caregiving support
→ In-Home Care & Caregiving (by region)
Skilled nursing or therapy services following hospitalization
→ Hospital Discharge
Safety supervision while plans are clarified
→ In-Home Care & Caregiving (by region)
These options are not exclusive. Many families begin with limited assistance while determining what level of care is sustainable.
In Maine, a formal assessment may help clarify eligibility for services and determine appropriate levels of support.
Maine’s Assessing Services Agency can explain next steps and schedule the appropriate review:
Phone: 833-525-5784
Email: Maine-ASA@maximus.com
Email: Ask-MaineASA@maximus.com
An assessment may help determine how daily activities are being managed and what types of services may be suitable.
When uncertainty increases, families often move through several stages:
Concerns are first observed.
Changes may involve mobility, memory, balance, medication management, or ability to complete daily tasks safely.
Information is gathered.
Families often consult clinicians, discharge planners, or trusted professionals to better understand care needs.
Assessment may be recommended.
Structured review may clarify what level of supervision or support is appropriate.
Support is introduced in stages.
Many families begin with limited assistance. Services may expand, adjust, or transition over time rather than shifting to a single permanent solution.
It is common for care structures to evolve.
In-home non-medical support and supervision providers are listed by region below.
Southern Maine — In-Home Care
Mid Coast Maine — In-Home Care
Central & Western Maine — In-Home Care
Downeast Maine — In-Home Care
Northern Maine — In-Home Care
Information is provided for orientation and navigation purposes. Providers operate independently and should be contacted directly to confirm services and availability.