If you’re ready to begin calling home care agencies to compare options and make a decision on which to select to care for your senior loved one, we’re pleased to provide you with a list of questions to make the process easier:
Services
- Service listing. Do they offer services specific to your loved one’s listed, required needs? Is someone available to provide information on all services, eligibility requirements and funding sources? Is that information available online or can they send it to you?
- Training and supervision. What formal training programs and certifications does the agency require of its direct care providers? What level of professional supervises the care? How often and how do the supervisors oversee the caregivers on location to ensure proper care is being provided?
- Documentation and coordination. Are visits and treatments documented? Do family members have easy access? Does the agency coordinate with the patient’s physician to provide a coordinated care plan?
Direct Care Providers
- Length of visits. How often does the care provider visit, and how long does she stay during each visit? Does the agency provide care on weekends and evenings? Does the visit allow for time to talk and get to know the patient?
- Rotation of care. Is care provided consistently by the same caregiver, or is care rotated among different people? If rotated, how often? Does the family receive advance notice when a change is being made?
- Accessibility. Do the agency office staff and the direct care provider stay in regular contact? Do they keep you informed of any changes in the patient’s health or plan of care?
Fees
- Funding and billing. Are services covered by Medicare or Medicaid? Do they supply written statements detailing costs? How often is the care invoiced, if there is payment due?
- Special fees. Are there fees for special or extended services? Who is responsible for them? Are payment plans available for any out-of-pocket services? Is there someone at the agency who can assist in exploring all options to pay for care?
For Independence-4-Seniors’ answers to these questions and more, call us at 630-323-4665, or visit our frequently asked questions page. Our four guiding principles (dignity – safety – choice – quality) ensure that your senior loved one will be cared for as if he or she were a member of our own family. With individualized care plans and services ranging from hourly personal and companion care to 24-hour live-in care, specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and hospice/end of life care, we’re here for you every step of the way!