What you should know before hiring Help in your Home:


Today's seniors have more options available to them then ever before. More and more seniors today are turning to the comfort of their own homes. Home care is considered by many to be one of the most desirable options because it allows seniors to maintain their independence while remaining in the one place where they feel most comfortable. To help with this task, we've provided the following checklist of questions to ask each home care company during the initial phone call.

  • How long has your company been in business?
  • Are your workers bonded and insured?
  • How extensive are your background checks?
  • How do you select your employees?
  • Do you have a description of services and fees?
  • What is the company's replacement policy?
  • Would you mind providing me with references?
  • Will the services be provided by the same person each day?
  • Can we set up a time to meet to discuss the details of my care needs?

When interviewing homecare providers, beware that many employment agencies position themselves as "homecare" companies when they are not they only refer caregivers to clients. Because the payroll cost is high, many companies classify their workers as independent contractors to save money and to be relieved in required payroll deductions, insurance cost and workers compensation insurance.

A Company that operates with independent contractors has no right to provide training, supervise or monitor the caregiver or the manner in which the work is to be done. All of these tasks become the client's responsibility. To identify and avoid these types of companies, always ask for prove of certificates of insurance and ask questions. Company that operates with contractors may not be held liable for injuries caused to the third person or to their residence.