What to Look for When Selecting a Home Care Agency
The most recent number of home care agencies in the United States totals to 12,400, according to the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Narrowing home care agencies down to a certain mile radius certainly helps with the initial search, but that still leaves at least a dozen or so from which to choose. It can be
very overwhelming and exhausting browsing through the websites and brochures of home care agencies. All seem to promise quality care and provide similar assistance at home. Do you make your decision solely based on finances? Is there more to choosing a home care agency than cost? If you are considering home care and don’t know where to start, here are a few tips on what to look for when selecting a home care agency. Provided Care Services
It’s important to know what services you need now and what services you’ll most likely need as you or your loved one ages. When choosing a home care agency, most older adults would prefer to stick with the same agency so that they can build rapport with their caregiver and the company. If you choose a home care agency that only offers a limited range of services now, you might need to switch providers as your needs change. Look for a provider that offers a wide variety of services, and one that tailors services to your needs today. Also look for a provider that can transition with you.
Longevity in the Community
With so many home care agencies popping up, it might be in your best interest to select a home care agency that’s been around for some time. No home care agency is perfect; however, one that that has been around for a few years most likely has better experience in senior home care services. The longer an agency has served in a community is also telling of their commitment to the senior population in that area. They have had time to build rapport and have had time to establish best practices.
Caregiver Training
When interviewing home care agencies, you’ll initially meet with the management team so that they can walk you through what their agency provides. While it’s great to know the managing team, the people working with you or your aging loved one directly will be the caregiving team. Ask how the agency provides training to new caregivers as well as what ongoing training caregivers receive. Ask if you can meet your caregiver and how you or your loved one are paired with a caregiver. Also ask what happens if you don’t get along with your caregiver, how quickly can you be matched with someone new?
Client Reviews
Finally, take time to read client reviews. Client reviews are more telling than any beautifully designed website or brochure. Scroll through the agency’s website to read reviews or look them up on social media to see what others are saying. It is also important to ask for references from medical professionals. Be sure that the agency can provide you with contact information or letters from both medical professionals and clients. The best referral source is often neighbors or friends. Reach out to others in your circle for recommendations.
Visiting Angels Southlake understands that choosing a home care agency is overwhelming and exhausting. We’re here to help you navigate the options. We would love to come alongside you and have a conversation with you about the services and care we offer. Our team works with each of our clients to provide services that are individualized to meet their personal needs. But don’t just take our word, here are what our clients are saying about us. When you are ready to see if we’d be a good fit for you, please contact us to set up a consultation.