Choosing a caregiver agency is one of the biggest decisions families have to make when looking for caregiving help. Agencies are licensed businesses that employ and send caregivers to your loved ones’ home to provide in-home care. They can provide either medical or non-medical care. Medical care includes services such as nursing or a home health aide, while non-medical care involves assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and eating, and can be provided by caregivers who have no professional training.
Agencies can be more expensive than hiring independent caregivers, but they usually offer the added benefit of liability coverage for workers who get hurt on the job. They also typically provide training and support for both the caregiver and your loved one, which can help ease your family’s anxiety about making sure your loved one is getting safe and appropriate care.
If you decide to go with a caregiver agency, try to find out as much as you can about the agencies in your area. Talk to friends who have hired them, read online reviews and call the agencies to request a packet of information about their services and fees.
Some agencies also act as staffing services, charging a onetime fee to connect you with a qualified caregiver who meets your needs. Others have online registries of certified home health workers, or you can search for caregivers by name through your local government’s public registry. Whatever route you take, it’s important that you and your loved one interview applicants to ensure they are a good fit. caregiver agencies