BYU Gerontology Blog

BYU Gerontology Blog
.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Seven Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Care Worker

by ElderCarelink

In-home care can be a great solution for seniors who need a little extra help to remain independent. However, don’t make the mistake of signing up with the first worker or agency you find.

Make the right choice by asking these questions first:
What areas do you serve?
What type of care do you provide? You can find out more about the different types of care available by visiting ElderCarelink.
What is your cancellation policy? Is there a 24-hour cancellation requirement? Will you still be charged for the day if you cancel?
Do you have after-hours service? Does the provider offer an answering service or paging service?
How are caregiver conflicts resolved? What happens if you or your loved one has an issue with the caregiver? Is a complaint procedure in place?
What are your rates? Find out about the billing cycle and what happens if you are late on a payment. Will the agency provide care if a late payment occurs?

Do you offer transportation services? If the agency expects workers to use client cars for errands, check with your auto insurance provider regarding liability issues.