Browse our In-Home Solutions Directory to see a listing of in-home care agencies throughout West Michigan:
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Choosing the Right Care for You or Your Loved One
If you’re considering in-home care for the first time, the idea may feel overwhelming. You may be asking a lot of questions: How do I know if I need it? What services are available? What agency should I choose? Where do I even start?
At Evergreen Commons, we hear questions like this all the time. Often, individuals reach out to us following a hospital stay or when they, or a loved one, have had some kind of physical or cognitive change. Let's take a moment to answer some of the most common questions for those considering in-home care. From there, we can connect you to additional resources to assist on your care journey.
What services do in-home care agencies typically offer?
Services vary, but usually include common tasks like housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal prep, or transportation. They might include personal care such as bathing, dressing, or hygiene care. Many agencies also offer services for companionship—when just having another friendly face around the house is helpful.
How much assistance is available?
Services range from around-the-clock care to a few hours a week. Some agencies have minimum hour requirements and others may not be able to accommodate 24/7 care needs. Keep this in mind when considering what best serves your needs.
Are caregivers given background checks?
Agency policies can vary. Check with each agency you’re considering about how they screen their employees and whether or not they run background checks.
Does the agency provide training opportunities for caregivers?
Training opportunities could include instruction on topics like conducting safe transfers, providing safe care during personal care, or training on caring for an individual with specific health concerns such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, or Parkinson’s disease. Inquire about the kinds of specialized training caregivers may receive to determine if that agency will meet your needs.
Do agencies create individualized care plans for each client?
Care plans vary by agency. When considering an agency, ask if agency staff will sit with you and/or your loved one to come up with an individualized plan of care that considers your unique preferences, needs, and potential scheduling flexibility.
How are caregivers scheduled?
When choosing an agency, ask if clients receive service from a consistent caregiver(s), or if there is a different caregiver at each visit. How does the agency adjust if the regular caregiver is unavailable? Continuity in the care-giving relationship provides a sense of familiarity and security that increases overall peace of mind.
How does an agency charge for their services and what forms of payment are accepted?
Agencies typically require a minimum number of hours or shifts per week. They may also charge different rates for nights, weekends, and holidays. Make sure to determine how the agency charges so you can compare the agency’s costs with your budget.
When meeting with agencies, be sure to express your or your loved ones’ needs up front, so everyone is aware of what’s needed and what the agency can do to help.
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If you have additional questions regarding in-home care options, please reach out to our Resource Center:
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