5 misconceptions about home care you should know about

by | Nov 10, 2021

5 misconceptions about home care you should know about, Cherished Companions

For many families, home care is a family lifeline. Home care professionals protect the health and well-being of their aging loved ones in the safe and accommodating environment of their own homes.

 

Millions of families lean on the expertise and compassion of the health care professionals in their lives. In the simplest terms, they are essential. 

Yet, some misconceptions about home care services can lead families down a bumpy road of uncertainty and apprehension. 

Home care, in fact, gives families a viable option for addressing the physical and mental health needs of their aging loved ones. 

As you begin the journey of finding a good partner who provides quality and compassionate care, it’s worth your time learning about five common misconceptions and the truths behind them. 

Misconception 1: It costs too much

“How much does it cost?” might be the first thing you ask.

It’s understandable to assume that the cost associated with caregiving will test your budget. 

It may come as no surprise, however, that home care service is the preferred option among aging individuals. That’s according to an AARP study.

It is also true that home care services are often the most cost-effective way to manage the care of the people you dearly love. 

Home care services do not come close to approaching the costs of assisted living facilities, yet they will deliver on a detailed caregiving plan that meets the specific needs of every family.

Misconception 2: They don’t care as much

This is an easy myth to debunk. 

One only has to observe an interaction between a home care professional and a client to become an instant believer. 

As part of an assessment, home care services will go the extra mile to fully understand the family’s needs. They will also pair you with an experienced professional who will regularly remind the family that their loved one is under the watch of someone who truly cares.

Misconception 3: It’s hard to switch caregivers

Once a caregiver is assigned to your family, it won’t be impossible to work with someone new, nor will it be a likely request made by the family.

Home care organizations work closely with your family to understand needs and assess every aspect of required and recommended care. These insights will guide every decision and ensure that your family’s health care partner is a natural and harmonious fit. 

Misconception 4: It’s permanent

Home care services is not only for seniors — it’s for anyone who needs a little extra help around the home. While a majority of the clients are senior citizens, home care facilities tailor their programs for a variety of in-home needs.

Home care facilities can make arrangements to work with you for a few months or for an indefinite amount of time, depending on the scope of services.

Misconception 5: Caregivers replace family members, friends

Home care service providers will be part of the family in many ways, developing meaningful relationships with those in their care and their family members. But they are not substitutes for a family member and will maintain boundaries. 

Home care service will be an asset to the family, not anything that will hold anyone back. Home care workers will strengthen family ties and help reduce any stress by providing a variety of services that make your loved one safer, healthier and happier. 

It’s not difficult for home care professionals to understand family dynamics. And they will always work toward being a positive force each day through the quality care and compassion they put into action. 

At Cherished Companions, we know your loved one’s heart is at home. That is why we deliver the type of care and support that makes it possible to thrive at any age. Cherishing people, and their desire for independence, is at the very heart of Cherished Companions. To learn more about our services, click here.

+ Bonus Caregiver Questions To Ask Before You Choose An Agency

5 misconceptions about home care you should know about, Cherished CompanionsAs you prepare to interview care agencies, take a look at the agency’s website to learn basic information about the types of care provided, specific services available, and payment options. You can expand on these topics with additional questions during the interview. Keep these tips in mind during the research process:

  • Get recommendations. Talk to healthcare professionals in the field, your mom or dad’s doctor, and any friends or family members you know who have worked with a home care agency previously. Ask them which agencies they have had the best experience with and find out what they think about each provider you plan to contact. Look online for reviews and ratings. Do they have a lot of reviews?  Look for independent review sites that have verified reviews such as bestofhomecare.com and look for agencies that have awards. See if they are accredited through the BBB and if they have an A+ rating.
  • Check references. The agency should supply a list of references such as health agencies, rehabilitation facilities, social workers and other providers they have worked with. Call these references and ask them whether they regularly refer patients to the agency and what sort of feedback they have heard from clients.
  • Consider the agency’s technology innovation. Does the agency have an online portal where you can view care plans and communicate with caregivers? Do they respond to communication quickly? Can you access information about your loved one via mobile? These are all useful ways to stay informed about your mom or dad’s care.
  • Understand their process. Will you have the opportunity to interview caregivers? What happens if the caregiver isn’t a good fit? Will the same caregiver serve your loved one at each visit? How does the agency provide accountability for quality of service?

Download Your Guide

We understand the importance of finding the right caregiver for your family member. The questions included in this guide will help make this process as straightforward and informative as possible.

Give your mom or dad the gift of independence at home with quality, compassionate in-home care.

Download your guide.

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