Important Questions to Ask When Interviewing Senior Home Care Companies

Important Questions to Ask When Interviewing Senior Home Care Companies

Our world has changed drastically in a matter of weeks. Our usual routines have been interrupted due to the onset of COVID-19. If you’re a senior, the COVID-19 pandemic could mean that your family is no longer able to visit. Travel restrictions and social distancing practices has left many seniors without their support network. While some seniors are managing their lives just fine amidst the crisis, other are truly struggling. The absence of their family caregivers means that they must rely on themselves to navigate their everyday life. If they aren’t tech savvy, then social distancing could mean that they are socially isolated.

It’s possible that the COVID-19 pandemic has only highlighted your need for senior home care, but you aren’t sure where to begin. Visiting Angels Jenkintown understands and is here to walk this journey with you. We’ve put together a list of important questions to ask when interviewing senior home care companies so that you can feel confident you are making the best choice.

What are my care needs?

Before you begin your senior home care search, it’s important that you take time to consider your personal care needs. Most senior home care companies will have an assessment that they walk you through, but you should also know in advance what specific needs you have. Do you struggle to take a shower? Is it difficult for you to manage basic household tasks? Are you lonely and would love to have a companion to keep you company? Knowing your needs can help you find the right senior home care company for you.

Can I meet my caregiver?

When you choose senior home care to help you age in place, you are inviting a stranger into your home. It can be intimidating to welcome someone brand new into your home. It’s important to ask if you can meet your caregiver prior to signing up. It’s also important to ask the company how they pair clients and caregivers. Is it at random, or does the company try to match clients according to personalities? You want to choose a senior home care company that is willing to work with you.

Another important question to ask is what to expect during each visit. Ask for specifics regarding what each service the care company offers entails, so that you’re not surprised. It’s important that you choose a senior home care company that can accommodate your schedule, instead of one that asks you to change your routine.

What happens if I need more help down the road?

Another important question to ask is how the company manages change down the road. Will they be able to accommodate your care needs should they become greater over time? How often do they evaluate their clients or make changes to care plans? Can they care for clients who develop memory loss? Are you able to increase your caregiver visits should you need to later down the road? You want to choose a senior home care company that can adapt to your changing needs, especially after you’ve spent time getting comfortable with your caregiver.

How long have you been around?

Another great question to ask a senior home care company is how long they’ve been in business and serving the community. Newer companies have not had the time to establish themselves in the market. While this isn’t necessarily bad, more established companies come with stronger references. Ask to speak with current clients and their families to get their candid opinion. Read reviews on the company’s website, as well as other online review sources, so you have a better picture of that company.

Visiting Angels Jekintown wants all seniors to receive the care and support they need so that they can thrive in the comfort of their own home. We are considered essential and continue to operate during the COVID-19 crisis. We would love to have a conversation with you about your care needs to see if we are a good match. We can arrange a telephone or video conference with you and your family so that everyone can be a part of the consultation process. If you are a senior who is struggling right now, please know that you do not have to wait out this crisis in order to start receiving the help that you need. Please contact us today by calling 215-938-7201.