How do I choose the right homecare provider?

Arranging care for yourself or a loved one can be overwhelming especially if it’s the first time you’ve had to explore the options available to you. It all starts with identifying what support is needed, choosing the right provider with carers who are compatible with you and understanding funding options and how to pay for care.

Our Care at home Business Development Manager Andrea, explains five steps to choosing the right home care provider for you or your loved one.

 

Deciding what type of support you need

The flexibility of care at home and one-to-one companionship is designed to enable you to live safely and independently in the comfort of your own home. From daily or weekly visits through to 24/7 live-in care, care at home can empower you to continue living life just the way you want and provide reassurance when you need it most.

 

Before deciding if professional care is needed, think about whether care needs could be supplemented with support from family members or friends or other, less expensive kinds of help around the home, such as domestic support in the form of a cleaner, gardener or companion. Perhaps there are some home adaptations that could be made to make daily tasks easier or useful gadgets that could help to support your independence. This can affect how much professional care you might require.

 

You could save on agency fees and make arrangements yourself by hiring private carers or a personal assistant. Be mindful that this will mean taking on the responsibilities of an employer as they will be employed directly by you.

 

One of the most popular options people looking for homecare explore is the use of a care agency. Care agencies provide professional care staff and will make all of the necessary arrangements for you. If you are opting for an agency, look for one that can provide care that’s tailored to your needs.

 

Make a list of what you want from a care service

Before you commit to a provider, think about what you want and need from professional care. Collate as much information as possible about your requirements so you can compare providers and choose one that’s right for you.

 

Consider these key questions first:

• What do you want help with?

• How often do you want them to visit?

• What time do you want them to visit?

• What specific activities do you want them to help with?

• How many hours a day/week can you afford to have help? 

 

Make a list of care agencies in the area that meet your needs

Use a reputable directory such as the CQC (Care Quality Commission) to find care providers in your area. Directories will show you registered agencies local to you along with information about the services they provide, contact details and inspection ratings (where available).

 

Check the ratings and make a shortlist

A regulated service means that the service is monitored and inspected by a regulating body to make sure appropriate standards of quality and safety are adhered to. Make a shortlist of the agencies that appear to meet your care requirements. 

 

Contact the agencies on your shortlist

Make enquiries to the agencies on your shortlist and arrange to meet with staff, preferably in your home. A reputable agency will use this opportunity to fully understand your needs and requirements but this is also your opportunity to find out everything you need to know - don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s often a good idea to ask a family member or neighbour to sit in on the assessment with you to make notes and keep track of everything discussed so you can review it later.

 

Nurseplus Care at home is our fully-compliant homecare service. We understand that everyone's care needs are different and the extra support required varies. We provide fully-trained staff to our clients to ensure they receive the best quality of care, most suited to them.

 

To find out more about our homecare and how we can help you or your loved one, speak to a member of our friendly team today on 08000 622 622.