7 Things You Must Know When Hiring a Home Care Agency
As our population ages, more and more Columbus Ohio families are turning to home care agencies to provide care for their loved ones. Knowing which agency to choose can be difficult with so many options available. Here are seven things to watch out for when hiring a home care agency.
1. Licensing and History
Proper licensing is one of the most important things to consider when hiring a home care agency. Ensure the agency is licensed by the State of Ohio (or has an application pending, as there have been delays even for top-tier providers like Visiting Angels), and look for a history of success. Many care agencies exist for a year or two and fail to get off the ground. Sadly, this industry is rife with operators looking to make a quick buck. In our experience, these care agencies hire haphazardly and may not have the proper training, insurance, and structure in place. Our senior care agency in Westerville OH has been open since 2012. We feature dozens of five-star reviews and long-term happy caregivers employed.
2. Caregiver Training and Qualifications
The caregivers who will be providing care to your loved one should be properly trained and qualified. Ask about the agency's hiring process and the qualifications and experience required of their caregivers. Look for agencies that provide ongoing training and education for their staff to ensure they are updated with the latest best practices in care. Many agencies hire anyone interested in working, placing them on a 90-day probationary period to see "who sticks around."
Our approach is completely opposite of this. At Visiting Angels Westerville, we are slow to hire and quick to love. We put our caregivers through a lengthy interview and vetting process and then hold them to the highest standards while treating them exceedingly well. Our family of caregivers is made up of the best of the best!
3. Availability of Care
Make sure the home care agency is able to provide care when you need it. Some Columbus Ohio agencies may only provide care during certain hours or on certain days of the week. Be clear about your loved one's needs and ensure the agency can accommodate them. Make sure to get clarification on billing as certain hours (or "on-call") of the day/week are priced higher, and you don't want to be misled regarding rates. Visiting Angels is incredibly transparent about our pricing.
4. Range of Services
Different home care agencies in Central Ohio may offer different services. Some may only provide personal care services, such as bathing and dressing, while others may also offer medication management, transportation, and other services. Make sure the agency you choose offers the services your loved one needs. Pure companionship services are seldom enough; caregivers with a range of skills and experience are usually needed.
5. Communication
Good communication is key to ensuring quality care for your loved one. Look for an agency that is responsive to your questions and concerns and keeps you informed about your loved one's care. Make sure you know who to contact if you have questions or if there is an issue with the care being provided. Visiting Angels offers 24/7/365 access in case of urgent issues and also communicates with you proactively regarding your home care service.
6. Cost
Home care in the Columbus area can be expensive, so it's important to understand the costs upfront. Ask about the agency's rates and any additional fees that may apply. Be clear about your budget and ensure the agency can provide the care your loved one needs within your financial means. Agencies have a variety of billing policies and options - be sure to get clear information up front. However, you might want to schedule a free in-home consultation for the best service. Once on-site, the best service, hours, and pricing structure can be discussed and customized for your needs.
7. Reputation
Finally, do your research and look for an agency with a good reputation. Read online reviews and ask for references from other families who have used the agency's services. A good reputation is a strong indicator of quality care.
In conclusion, choosing a home care agency for your loved one in Columbus OH can be daunting. By keeping these seven things in mind, you can ensure that you choose an agency that provides high-quality care, is responsive to your needs, and offers the services your loved one needs to thrive.