Why Choosing a Professional Caregiver Through a Home Care Company is In Your Best Interest

The majority of older adults desire to remain in their own homes as they age. Yet not every older adult will be able to live independently and accomplish daily tasks without receiving help from a caregiver. Because of this, many in-home care companies have opened their doors in hopes of helping older adults remain safely and independently in their own homes.

In addition to home care companies, private caregivers have entered the senior care realm. Private caregivers can be found as easily as doing a quick internet search. There are websites dedicated to connecting seniors directly with private caregivers. Private caregivers can even be found through social media groups. With so many ways to find a private caregiver, many older adults and their families wonder why they should bother using a home care company to hire a professional caregiver. If you’re on the market for a private caregiver and exploring your care options, here are four reasons why choosing a professional caregiver through a home care company is actually in your best interest.

Home Care Companies Thoroughly Vet Their Caregivers

When you choose to hire a caregiver to assist you, you’re essentially allowing a stranger to enter your home. Although the caregiver might feel like family over time, initially, they are an outsider. When you choose to receive help through a home care company, you know that the caregivers they hire are well-vetted. They run background checks. They look for candidates who have a passion for the elderly. They only hire staff that is compassionate, reliable, and knowledgeable. Once a caregiver is hired, the company works with potential clients to match the client with a compatible caregiver. Although there are wonderful private caregivers that you can read about on care websites or social media groups, you never know who you’re going to get. It’s safer to find a caregiver through a home care company committed to doing their due diligence before hiring an employee.

Home Care Companies Offer Greater Flexibility

Home care companies offer a wide variety of home care services. They also have the flexibility to work with your personal routine and schedule. As changes come up with your personal life, or as your needs change over time, a home care company can adapt your care schedule to meet your needs. Private caregivers aren’t always able to accommodate a last-minute change in your schedule. Some can’t provide additional care as you

Professional Caregivers Employed By Home Care Companies are Supported

Professional caregivers who work for a home care company are well supported. In addition to being monitored closely by the company, they also receive ongoing care training to continue to provide the best possible care. If a situation arises where the caregiver doesn’t know what to do, they can call their supervisor and seek the help and guidance they need. A private caregiver often does not have the support of a supervisor. They do not need to meet ongoing training requirements, or if they do, the requirements are minimal. They have little to no support on the job, which can take a toll on them over time.

Home Care Companies are Bonded, Licensed & Insured

Finally, home care companies are licensed in all the states that require licensing. This means that they need to meet certain governmentally regulated requirements to provide hands-on care. They are surveyed regularly by the state to stay in compliance with the state’s regulations. Home care companies are also bonded and insured. This gives older adults and families the peace of mind that a trustworthy caregiver will be in their home. Private caregivers don’t necessarily need to meet certain licensure or regulations. Some even accept payment “under the table.” Again, there are well-qualified private caregivers who are compassionate and trustworthy. However, there’s little accountability when you choose to hire a private caregiver.

Visiting Angels Southlake understands that finding senior care for a loved one can be an emotional process. Family members often wish they could provide complete care for a loved one struggling to maintain their independence. Due to distance and time constraints, it’s not always possible to be there in person to provide senior care. That is where we can help. We are a trusted resource for senior care services. Our agency is bonded, licensed, and insured with the state of Texas. Our experienced staff completes background checks, criminal history checks, and previous employment verification. Our caregivers are outstanding professionals who are passionate about providing top-notch senior care. Choose us for your home care needs and enjoy peace of mind knowing you chose the best home care company. To learn more about what we can do for you, please get in touch with us today by calling 817-684-1996.