An introduction for Newcomers to Homecare
(courtesy: www.athomepersonalcare.com)
In a dire situation, when you are looking for care for an elderly loved one, you may not have the time to study and understand how the homecare industry operates, what its norms are, and how you can get the best care for the best price.
Allow us to give you a brief overview of the homecare industry.
“Homecare” (not to be confused with Home Health Care) refers to non-medical, non-nursing care. It is personal care provided to ensure the safety and well-being of client. The care provides assistance with all “Activities of Daily Living” (ADLs), which include bathing, grooming, personal hygiene and incontinence care, transfers and mobility, meals preparation and feeding, hydration, medication reminders and assistance. In addition, based on assessed needs, homecare may include homemaking tasks like laundry, trash removal and light housekeeping.
State licensing authorities regulate the industry through rules and regulations, which require all licensed agencies to maintain standards or care and documentation. Reputable agencies usually carry liability, misconduct and negligence insurance to ensure protection for all parties.
Most agencies assign trained employees to provide the care to their clients. However, there are some agencies that use the services of independent contractors to provide the care. While both models have pros and cons, the agencies operating with independent contractors are generally more nimble and flexible in responding to urgent care situations because they have a larger pool of available caregivers to start and cover odd hour shifts and care.
There are also many new franchises offering care services to the elderly, many of which are recently established and thus with limited track record and experience, limited to their territories of operation and generally charge higher rates for the same services to cover their franchise fees and overhead costs.
As you look for homecare services for an elderly loved one, here is a list of key items you need to bear in mind as you make your inquiries:
- Is the agency licensed by the state?
- Does the agency carry liability and other type business insurance?
- Does the agency readily provide you references of past or present clients
- Does the agency use professional nurses to plan and assess the care?
- Does the agency charge competitive hourly or daily rates?
