Choosing the appropriate type of care or
care facility that an individual may require can be very time consuming and difficult.
Usually families have no idea how or where to begin. There are many factors to consider
when exploring options for seniors. We have gathered information and links to make it easier for you to make an
informed choice.
Carefully consider the following when you are interviewing potential Companies or Caregivers.
Research the Company:
How long have they been in business? Who is the owner? How involved are they in the day-to-day operations?
Do you have access to them? What is their experience? What type of insurance do they have? Are they
Accredited? What specific services do they provide? What if you need a service they don't provide?
What are the specific fees for each service? What are the educational requirements for each type of
caregiver? Do you have input into the specific individual assigned? Will you always get the same caregiver for
the same service? How do you contact them after normal business hours?
Criminal Record Check:
A caregiver's background critically important, as you are allowing them access to your
homes as well as personal property. Simple reference checks are not always sufficient. If the caregiver is
working for a company, ask the company how often they require their staff to obtain criminal record checks.
Caregiver Training:
Find out the sort of training the caregiver has received, and is it up to date.
Does the company offer ongoing training, and does the caregiver take advantage of it?
Caregiver Availability:
Find out when the caregiver is available. Are they available 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, or on holidays?
Caregiver Logs:
Will the caregiver be maintaining a daily log of the activities? This is
important because it acts as an ongoing diary for family members as well as other caregivers that
may come into the home.
Caregiver Compatibility
Each person has their own unique temperament, it is important to weigh the traits
of both the caregiver and your family member or friend. What characteristics would facilitate
the best atmosphere for the individual requiring care?
Transportation:
Although care giving is not a transportation service, there will be times when
transportation may be needed for any number of reasons. Find out if this service is available.
Feel Free to browse our Resource section for helpful Educational & Service links
