By Jennifer Luna Friedrich
Is the agency bonded, licensed and
insured?
Ask to see copies of the agency’s business or
other required licenses, liability insurance policy,
Worker’s Compensation insurance policy and surety
bond. Keep copies for your records in case of
a future need.
Is there a cost for assessments?
An initial assessment is vital to
determining the type of care your loved one needs.
Some agencies charge fees for assessments.
Can you interview the caregiver
before starting service?
You want to find a caregiver you feel comfortable
with. Ask about the agency’s policy regarding
interviewing caregivers. Most offer this for free,
while some charge a fee.
What is the caregiver replacement policy?
If your worker is sick or quits, are emergency call
services available?
There should be a plan in place if your caregiver
can’t work. Ask if you can replace a caregiver if
there is a problem and how soon you can have a
replacement.
How many caregivers work for the
agency?
This is important to determine the agency’s
ability to find a replacement caregiver if needed.
Smaller agencies have fewer workers to call for
replacements. Larger agencies have more workers to
choose from.
You may have more questions to ask potential
caregivers. Write them down and keep notes on the
responses. Finding the right caregiver can be a
tedious process, but you will feel better knowing
you have done your best. It is a very important
decision to bring a caregiver to your home. With the
right information, you can determine which agency or
caregiver is right for you.
Jennifer Luna Friedrich holds a Bachelor’s
Degree in Gerontology and certification as a
Residential Care Facility for the Elderly
Administrator.
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