In-Home Health Care: What To Look For

How to Evaluate In-Home Health Care


As with nursing facility care, the most important issue with in-home care, to me, has got to be staff. Who are they? What are their personalities like? Here are some other things to look for:

- Is this facility new or does it have a history in your community. New doesn’t mean bad, but you will have fewer references, so go carefully.

- Check with your state to be sure they are licensed and accredited to provide home care.

- Go to Medicare’s Home Health Web site at: www.medicare.gov/HHCompare

- Does the agency work well with the family and/or spouse of your loved one?

- How much training does the staff have, and how are they trained?

- How are they supervised?

- How much does the client pay out-of-pocket?

- How does the agency interact with their client’s doctor? With another agency that may provide a different kind of care?

You’ll need answers to these questions and others that you’ll see on the Medicare site. But - remember – it’s the staff that will spend time with your loved one. See if you can talk with some of them. Are the vibes right? No matter who you hire, you’ll need to monitor the care.

Your loved one is still depending on you to be the main caregiver – the one who is looking out for his or her welfare. Check references and follow through. Drop in and visit. Be an advocate. There are many good in-home health care options around these days. Be sure the one you engage fits that description.


For more information about Carol go to www.mindingourelders.com or www.mindingoureldersblogs.com.