Choosing a Home Care Provider
By Karen Struble Myers, CFRE

Whether a person has a disability or simply needs a helping hand in order to remain in their home, choosing a home care provider can be a daunting task. For over 55 years, accessAbilities has been guiding families through this process. We know it is essential that a person feel comfortable and safe with their caregiver.

When selecting a home care provider it is important to do some research on the provider's reputation, services, and quality. Here are some considerations:

• How long has this provider been serving the community?
• Does this provider supply literature explaining its services, eligibility requirements, fees, and funding sources? An annual report and other educational materials also can provide helpful information about the provider.
• How does this provider select and train its employees? Are background checks required?
• Does this provider consider the client's needs in developing a service plan?
• Does this provider assign supervisors to oversee the quality of care clients are receiving in their homes? If so, how often do these individuals make visits? Who can the patient and his or her family members call with questions or complaints? How does the agency follow up on and resolve problems?
• How does the provider ensure that a client's information remain confidential?
• Is the provider licensed to deliver home care services? Does the provider have any certifications?
• How does the provider monitor client satisfaction?

Some of the best sources for finding quality home care are right in your community. Doctors, hospitals, and state resources such as departments of health, aging and social services can all provide information on how to connect with a reputable home care agency. These local resources, including your local county Area Agency on Aging can provide you with a list of accredited home care agencies and local assistance programs in your area.

Family members, friends and co-workers are likely to have either been in the same situation themselves, or know of someone who has searched for home care before. If so, try to find out as much as you can about how they found the provider, and what their experience was like.

Home care is a wonderful way to help people be their most independent. With a strong support system in place and the daily assistance of an excellent home care provider, people are able to enjoy the comforts of home well into their golden years.

For more information on home care from accessAbilities, call Karen Struble Myers at (724) 832-8272 or visit www.accessAbilities.org

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