Visiting Angels® Traverse City, MI, is a locally owned and operated senior care agency dedicated to providing compassionate, non-medical home care. We offer personalized services, including personal care, senior companion care, Alzheimer’s care, transitional care, and more, allowing seniors to maintain their independence and dignity in the comfort of their own homes. Our experienced caregivers are committed to enhancing the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of each individual. When your loved one needs support to age in place safely, trust Visiting Angels Traverse City to deliver the highest quality senior care.

A Checklist for Homecare in Traverse City, MI

The most effective way to manage the challenges of home care is to be as prepared and informed as possible. If you are considering home care, this checklist of important factors can be a helpful guide to identifying needs and planning for the future.

Mental status - Is your loved one having problems with memory or decision-making? Have you noticed a change in behavior or any confusion?

Mobility - Is your loved one unsteady when walking? Do they use any aids, such as a walker? Does he/she have difficulty getting in and out of a chair or bed? Have there been any falls in the last few months?

Home safety - Is your loved one’s living environment conducive to an aging person? How many stairs does he/she have to navigate each day? Are there safety features, such as grab bars and a bench, in the restroom? Has the home been checked for fall risk hazards?

Nutrition - Is there adequate food in the house? Is it properly stored? How does the shopping get done? Who does the cooking?

Medications - Does your loved one have problems remembering to take his/her medications? Is there a good system for managing medications?

Driving - Does your loved one still drive? When was the last time someone rode with him/her to evaluate the driving? Is there an alternate option or plan in the event that he/she no longer feels comfortable driving?

Isolation - How much contact does your loved one have with others? Is there someone who interacts with him/her on a regular basis?

Financial matters - Is your loved one still capable of managing his/her own finances? Are the bills being reviewed and paid on time? Is he/she at risk of financial abuse? Have they considered a budget for in-home or long-term care, should it be necessary?

Legal paperwork - Is there a will? Are Durable Powers of Attorney completed? Where are those documents kept?

Ten Important Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Home Care Provider

Once you’ve assessed your loved one’s home care needs, the next step is choosing the right provider. Asking the right questions can help you find a trusted agency that aligns with your family’s expectations and ensures quality care. Below are ten key questions to consider when making this important decision.

1. Is your company bonded and insured? Do I have to have my own liability insurance?
2. How does your company hire caregivers? What does your vetting process look like? Do you do background checks on your caregivers? Do you drug screen your caregivers?
3. Consistency of caregivers - what should I expect my schedule to look like?
4. How does your company handle any safety concerns? Can you do safety assessments in the home?
5. Discuss your care needs and your expectations of a caregiver. Can the company meet these needs?
6. How will your loved one’s preferences and personality be taken into account?
7. What does the company’s staff look like? How many caregivers and clients do you currently have? What are the demographics of the caregivers employed with your company?
8. What are the range of services your company can provide? What tasks can NOT be performed?
9. What is your company’s call-off policy for the staff? What is the process of handling emergency situations?
10. What is your company’s pricing and billing structure?

If your senior or disabled loved one needs home assistance, contact Visiting Angels in Traverse City, MI today. We're happy to offer a free consultation to get started.