Hi there, I’m Laura Lynn Morrissey, founder of SilverSavvy and former owner of a bustling homecare agency in the Boston area. As a certified dementia care practitioner and aging specialist, homecare is a topic close to my heart, and I often kick off discussions by asking, “How many of you have had a loved one discharged from the hospital sooner than seemed ready?” This question always hits home because it’s a concern many of us share.
Recent changes in healthcare policy have led to patients being discharged home earlier than ever before. This is due to economic pressures and a strategic shift towards home care. While this can be cost-effective for hospitals, it often means families need to quickly arrange significant in-home care to manage medical needs that are still acute.
The Reality of Homecare Today
- Over 12 million Americans currently require some form of home health care, mostly older adults (National Association for Home Care & Hospice).
- The national median cost for home health aides is about $4,576 per month, which can be a substantial financial burden (Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020).
- With the aging population expected to exceed 70 million by 2030, the demand for caregiving services is set to rise dramatically (U.S. Census Bureau).
Given these statistics, it’s essential to prepare in advance for potential caregiving needs. This blog aims to provide you with the critical information you need to make well-informed decisions about caregiving. This way, you can ensure the well-being of your loved ones and have peace of mind for the future.
Helping You Make Informed Decisions
At SilverSavvy, our mission is to educate and guide you through the ongoing and sometimes repeated need for care throughout life. By understanding the facts, realities, and strategies for effective caregiving, you’ll be better equipped to act proactively and competently, ensuring quality care and support for your loved ones (or even you!) whenever it’s needed.
Key Questions When Selecting a Caregiving Agency
Choosing the right caregiver through an agency involves asking the right questions:
What Services Do You Provide?
Why It Matters: Ensures you understand the type and scope of services they are licensed to provide.
What to look for: Determine whether they are a medical or non-medical agency. Medical agencies can provide PT, OT and other services, while Non-Medical Home Care Agencies can provide companionship, assistance with activities of daily living and sometimes transportation.
Are You Licensed, and Carry Workman’s Compensation Insurance?
- Why It Matters: Although most states have rigorous oversight of homecare agencies, certain states do not yet have the necessary oversight.
- What To Look For: The agency must confirm they have liability insurance, workman’s compensation insurance, the requisite licenses and any necessary accreditation.
How Do You Evaluate a Caregiver’s Qualifications and Conduct Background Checks?
- Why It Matters: Ensures caregivers are qualified and have undergone thorough background checks.
- What to Look For: Agencies should require certifications like CPR and first aid and conduct comprehensive background checks that include state-wide and nation-wide screening.
What Initial and Ongoing Training and Skills Assessments Do You Provide?
- Why It Matters: Determines how well caregivers are prepared to manage various care scenarios and correct use of equipment.
- What to Look For: Agencies should provide detailed information about initial and ongoing training programs.
Can Provide Three Client References?
- Why It Matters: Offers insights into the agency’s reliability and quality of care.
- What to Look For: A reputable agency will readily provide references.
Describe Your Caregivers’ Protocols in The Event of An Emergency?
- Why It Matters: Ensures caregivers and agencies can effectively manage emergencies.
- What to Look For: Clear, documented emergency procedures and communication protocols.
What Is Your Caregiver / Client Matching and Client Introduction Process?
- Why It Matters: Enhances care quality and personal compatibility.
- What to Look For: An explanation of the matching process and an opportunity to meet caregivers beforehand.
What Is Your Process to Replace a Caregiver for a Shift or Permanently?
- Why It Matters: Allows for flexibility if the caregiver-client match isn’t suitable.
- What to Look For: Easy-to-follow procedures for requesting a replacement.
What Is Your Billing Process? What Detail Is Provided on The Invoices?
- Why It Matters: Prevents surprises and ensures clarity on service charges.
- What to Look For: Detailed billing policies including caregiver name, hours worked, rates charged and any additional costs.
How Can I See the Care Plan and Any Subsequent Changes?
- Why It Matters: Ensures personalized care that addresses specific client needs.
- What to Look For: Customized care plans detailing daily routines and medical requirements.
How Do You Manage Feedback and Complaints?
- Why It Matters: Indicates the agency’s commitment to quality and client satisfaction.
- What to Look For: Formal procedures for feedback and resolutions.
Unique Services
- Why It Matters: Distinguishes the agency from competitors.
- What to Look For: Additional services like specialized dementia care or technological monitoring tools (e.g., family access to care plans and remote clocking in and out via an app).
Do You Manage Long-Term Care Insurance Claims and Payments
- Why It Matters: Specific skills are required to effectively manage a LTCI claim and process the payments directly from the insurance company. The agency must be on the insurance company’s list of approved providers, or the claim will be denied.
- What to Look For: Confirm they have experience in the claims and payment process and are an approved provider with your long-term care insurance company.
What Payment Options Do You Accept?
- Why It Matters: This is essential for financial planning and accessing services. There are agencies who accept only checks or credit cards.
- What to Look For: Clear information on accepted payment types including Medicare, Long Term Care Insurance and VA benefits.
Considering a Friend or Neighbor for Caregiving?
While hiring someone you know might seem convenient, it comes with significant risks, such as managing payroll taxes and insurance. Professional agencies mitigate these risks by ensuring reliability, compliance, and quality training. They also perform extensive background checks to ensure caregiver reliability and safety. There’s a lot to unpack here, so stay tuned for a future blog post dedicated just to this topic.
The Reality of Fraud in Homecare
Unfortunately, fraud is a significant concern in the homecare industry. Criminals are becoming more sophisticated in their attempts to exploit the vulnerable. According to the National Council on Aging, elder financial abuse and fraud cost older Americans approximately $36.5 billion each year. Choosing a reputable homecare agency is crucial in protecting your loved ones. The best agencies have rigorous screening processes to ensure that caregivers are not only qualified but also trustworthy.
Ready to Ensure Quality Care for Your Loved One?
Your feedback is invaluable, and we’d love to hear your thoughts on this article and any other caregiving topics you’d like us to explore.
Connect with a SilverSavvy Specialist Today! Schedule a free consultation with one of our caregiving experts if you’re navigating caregiver options. We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your unique situation.
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To You Aging Well,
Founder | SilverSavvy