WHAT TO LOOK FOR AND QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING A HOME CARE AGENCY

While finding a caregiver on your own may initially appear to be less expensive, the cost difference becomes negligible when time, taxes, insurance and your security are factored in. When considering hiring a caregiver to help with services in your home, make sure you know the facts. The decision to hire a caregiver can be overwhelming, so it is helpful to have experienced professionals guide you through the process. Being well informed and relying on experts to coordinate the selection of highly-qualified and compatible caregivers can reduce your stress, ensure the quality of care and the safety you expect, save you money and protect you from potential legal problems and financial responsibility.

Can you send me information describing your services and fees?

A reputable agency will provide detailed, easy to understand information for review that describes rates, available services and any or all fees. You should also be able to drop by their business office to meet the office staff personally.

Can we set up a time to meet to discuss the details of my care needs?

A reputable company will always send a representative to the residence where care will be provided for complimentary, no obligation consultation at your convenience. This affords you the opportunity to get your questions answered and ensure you are comfortable with the agency.

What are your interviewing and hiring practices?

It is essential that an agency has more than one meeting or interview with an employee prior to sending them to you or your loved ones home. This affords the opportunity to gain better insights into the employee’s motivations and reliability.

How extensive are your criminal background and reference checks?

It is important that the agency not only run a check on their caregiver’s last job but also driving records. California now requires caregivers be finger printed and checked with the Department of Justice and the FBI if they are working for a licensed agency.

Are your workers bonded and insured in case of injury or theft?

The company you want to work with must have extensive insurance, including Professional and General Liability, Non-Owned Auto, a Dishonesty Bond and Workers Compensation policies.

Do we get to meet the caregiver before starting service?

A good quality home care agency should personally introduce the caregiver to ensure the customized plan is reviewed; introductions go smoothly and ensure the caregiver clearly understands expectations.

Does your company have ongoing supervision and training for the caregiving staff?

Supervision and ongoing training enhances job performance and quality of care delivered, which results in a better care experience for you or your loved one.

What is your caregiver replacement policy or guarantee?

A good agency should replace a caregiver when needed and have back-up coverage available. Maintain regular contact with both clients and caregivers to ensure satisfaction.

What happens if we decide to discontinue services?

A home care agency should ask for no more than two weeks’ notice to end services and should be willing to waive notice should you or your loved one (the Cared-for) be admitted to the hospital.

Kerry Goss and Senior Helpers of the Desert have been members of the PRO Wellness Village since March 2013. In addition to be extremely compassionate about her work in the community, Kerry maintains Parkinson’s education for her Caregivers specifically to work in our community. The feedback we receive from our constituents has given Kerry Goss and Senior Helpers of the Desert extremely high grades. Find Kerry here.