20 Questions to Ask When Choosing In-Home Care
Choosing the right in-home care provider is a critical decision that impacts the quality of life for you and your loved ones. With so many reputable care providers available, knowing what to ask can help you identify the best fit. Comfort Keepers® recommends asking these 20 questions to ensure your chosen agency prioritizes care, communication, and professionalism.
Key Questions to Consider:
Care Approach: Do you provide care that addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being?
Experience: How many years have you been in business?
Family Involvement: Do you keep families informed and engaged in the care process?
Personalization: Do you have a method to match a caregiver to my specific needs?
Insurance and Liability: Does your agency have liability coverage? Are caregivers bonded and insured against theft?
Background Checks: Do your employees undergo national and local background and driving checks?
Employee Status: Are all your caregivers employees of your company (not contractors), and are they covered by workers’ compensation?
Scheduling: Do you have a system for tracking caregiver arrival and departure times?
Accessibility: Does your agency have a physical location where I can meet your staff? Is there 24/7 phone service?
Backup Care: Are other caregivers available to step in if my regular caregiver is unavailable?
Minimum Hours: Do you require a minimum number of hours per visit? If so, what is the minimum?
Personal Care Services: Do you offer assistance with dressing, bathing, incontinence care, and mobility support?
Transportation: Can caregivers drive clients to appointments and social events?
Care Plans: Do you develop a customized care plan that is updated periodically?
Quality Assurance: Will supervisors periodically visit to ensure service quality?
Documentation: Can you provide documentation about client rights, your code of ethics, workers’ compensation, HIPAA compliance, and fees?
Technology: Do you use technology to stay connected and ensure safety?
Safety Assessment: Will you provide a home safety assessment?
Ongoing Training: Do your caregivers receive ongoing training?
Start Time: How quickly can we begin receiving care?
Why These Questions Matter
These questions provide a comprehensive understanding of an agency’s values, practices, and capabilities. By focusing on care quality, family involvement, and transparency, you can confidently select a provider who aligns with your needs and expectations.
Need Assistance?
If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, Comfort Keepers® is here to help. We’re happy to answer any questions and guide you through the decision-making process.
