Tips for Selecting the Right Home Care Providers

If your loved one is aging and in poor health condition, they may require assistance with their activities of daily living. Critically, there is no more important task than hiring someone to help with the personal care of an elderly family member. While finding home care providers can sometimes be challenging, it’s essential to know what to look for. 

Here are several tips for selecting the right home care provider for your loved one: 

Check the Provider’s Qualifications and Credentials    

One of the first things you should do when searching for a home care provider is check their qualifications and credentials. Verify the caregiver’s training and inquire about their experience. If the caregiver works for an agency, be sure to ask the following questions: 

• How long has the agency been in business?
• Is the agency privately owned or part of a chain?
• What type of training do the caregivers receive?
• Are the caregivers bonded and insured?
• How are the caregivers supervised?
• Are the caregivers subject to a criminal background check? 

It’s also a good idea to assess the caregiver’s communication skills, empathy, and knowledge. A home care provider should have the ability to listen attentively and the confidence needed to perform the necessary tasks. 

Determine the Type of Services Your Loved One Needs

It’s essential to determine the type of services you need for your loved one and whether the home care provider offers them. Some home care providers offer 24/7 services while others only do occasional visits. Evaluate your loved one’s physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. For example, does your loved one require general assistance with their activities of daily living or do they need help with medication management and medical equipment? Do they have a specific medical condition that requires specialized care? 

Some seniors could use help with housekeeping or errands, while others simply need companionship. Others may be physically or mentally incapacitated and unable to care for themselves. Home care providers can assist with a wide range of daily activities, including bathing, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, and other tasks — many companies also offer skilled nursing. Assessing your loved one’s needs can help you make an informed decision and determine the best home care provider option. Be sure to choose a caregiver or agency that offers the specific services needed. 

Look at Testimonials from Past Clients

Testimonials can speak volumes about a home care provider or the agency they work for. They can provide evidence that other families have had a good experience with the agency and showcase what it would be like to work with them. Similarly, references and referrals from others who have worked with the caregiver can provide crucial insight into their work ethic, performance, reliability, and qualifications. Look for a provider with a good reputation, solid ratings, and positive reviews. 

Consider How the Provider Communicates

When making the decision to hire a home care provider, consider how they communicate and what methods they use. Ask whether they provide regular updates, detailed care plans, and how emergency communication protocol is handled. You should also find out what approach the caregiver takes when collaborating with family members. 

Assess the Costs of the Services

An important factor to consider when choosing a home care provider is cost. Look into the agency’s fee structure and how the services are priced — for instance, are they priced weekly, monthly, hourly, or daily? You should also determine whether the services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or any insurance plan your loved one may have. In some cases, medically necessary home health care is covered by insurance, while personal home care is not.   

Find Out the Process for Developing a Care Plan

A personalized care plan helps ensure your loved one’s needs are met. Find out how the provider assesses an individual’s needs and how a care plan is developed. Ask about the involvement of family and your loved one, as well as the specific elements included in the plan. A care plan should be tailored specifically for your loved one and developed collaboratively after an assessment of their needs and preferences.

Contact an Experienced Michigan Elder Law Attorney

Ensuring you find the right caregiver for an aging loved one can be stressful and overwhelming. An elder law attorney can guide you through the process and help ensure you make the right decision. To learn more about finding a home care provider for your loved one, contact Estate Planning & Elder Law Services to schedule a consultation to discuss the needs of your family.