When you or a loved one need extra support to remain in your home, many times a home care agency can satisfy these needs. Choosing the right agency is a vital decision that can require research and time, especially when inviting someone into your home.
Different home care agencies may offer a range of services that can vary from meal preparation, housekeeping, medication reminders, and non-medical care. Some may also offer specified medical care by a health care professional.
Before you meet with different home care agencies, it helps to consider what may be important to you and your loved one. Here are some questions to consider before choosing an agency.
What type of services do you provide?
Depending on the needs of your loved one, services can range from medical and non-medical services that include housekeeping, meal preparation, bathing/dressing, medication management and more.
How long have you been providing home care services for?
You’ll want to choose an agency that can provide you with references and testimonials. Ask for referrals from clients and other medical professionals.
Can you start immediately or is there a waiting list?
If you or your loved one is in need of care right away in the event of an emergency, choose an agency that can provide services immediately.
Will you do an assessment and put together a personal care plan?
A respectable home care agency will send a nurse to meet with you and your loved one to asses needs and provide a personalized home care plan of action. It should be detailed about specific needs, including any necessary medical equipment. It’s also a good idea to have this care plan review by the family doctor and updated frequently.
Are nurses available to supervise the care?
A huge benefit of working with a reputable home care agency is that all caregivers are supervised by nurses.
What qualifications do your caregiver have?
It’s important that you feel comfortable with the level of experience and training that a caregiver has. A good agency will interview, screen and train their caregivers, as well as checking references and criminal records before hiring.
Are your caregivers bonded and insured?
Having caregivers who are insured and bonded to your home are for the protection of you, the caregivers and the agency.
Are services available 24/7?
Depending on the needs of you or your loved one, an agency should be able to accommodate your needs and flexibility with very little notice. The home care agency you choose should provide great service within these time frames.
Is the agency inspected by an outside organization?
Wherever your home care is needed, be sure that the agency you choose is accredited.
What if I am dissatisfied with my caregiver?
If you and your loved one aren’t satisfied or comfortable with the caregiver provided, a respectable agency will provide you with a different caregiver.
Located in Greenwich, CT, CT Help at Home is proud to be a top-rated home health care provider in Fairfield County, CT, Westchester County, NY, Manhattan, NY and beyond. Our clients are our family and we treat everyone with compassion and care. Contact us today to see how we can help you and your loved ones: (203) 520-0116.