The Most Important Considerations in choosing In-Home Care in Perrysburg, OH

Investigating in-home care can be a confusing and emotional undertaking. There are more and more choices to consider when looking for care for yourself or a loved one. Resist the urge to look at price as the first consideration since many factors can affect the value of the care you are receiving.

So what are some of the issues you should consider when interviewing an agency?

1. First, it is important to determine what level of care is required. Home Health care may be required if there is a condition that needs the oversight of medical personnel, such as recovery from illness or injury, or care under the supervision of Hospice. Home care, on the other hand, can include help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL's). This could include help around the house with meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation and errands, help with recreational activities, companionship care, and personal care (such as bathing, incontinence care and medication reminders). Be sure you speak to a Care Coordinator about your exact needs and any other support services available to you.

2. Is the agency set up as an employer or does it simply refer caregivers to customers (registry). This is extremely important and not always as apparent as it may seem. You need to ask specific questions. Employers have a responsibility to abide by all federal and state labor laws, including overtime laws; they are required to pay social security, withhold taxes, pay unemployment and workers compensation premiums, and generally they carry extensive insurance on their agency and their employees. Some of the insurance may include professional liability, automobile liability, fraud and dishonesty, and abuse liability. Employers will also run extensive background checks, including reference checks, criminal, driving record and credit checks. All of these are designed to protect you and give you peace of mind.

3. Other important questions to ask: Is a written Plan of Care provided? Are the caregivers supervised? What training is required/provided to each caregiver? Are the care arrangements flexible? Does the agency offer a backup plan in the event a caregiver is unable to make a shift or you require additional care? Does the agency coordinate care with other health providers or with Hospice? Does the agency utilize any healthcare technology (telephony, online scheduling, home monitoring system, electronic billing)? How does the agency communicate with family members, especially out of town?

Keep in mind that the choices can seem overwhelming, but the answers are out there! Make sure you feel comfortable with the owner of the agency you are dealing with. An owner or Client Care Coordinator should communicate effectively and be willing to answer ALL of your questions until you are satisfied.

Tammy Smith, Certified Senior Associate (CSA)
Owner of Comfort Keepers in Suburban Toledo and Monroe/Lenawee Counties
www.comfortkeepers.com
www.ahandinthehome.com
419-874-4880