10 things to check before you engage a home care company

Without experience it is difficult to know what to look for when engaging a company to look after a loved one below is a list of things you should expect from a good care provider.

1. Home care can provide a wide range of services to support you to live in your own home.
2. Good homecare should give you a time that suits you and the visits should be at least 1 hour long.
3. You should receive continuity of care (the same carer)
4. When choosing a home care agency check reviews on independent websites like homecare.co.uk, cqc.org.uk, ukhca.co.uk.
5. Make sure the carer is introduced before they start giving care.
6. Use a company that will match the carer with your loved ones personality and needs.
7. If you notice a loved one is struggling, bringing up the need for home care can be difficult but it is important that they maintain control and agree with the decision.
8. The home care company should perform a care assessment and provides you with a care plan for you to review and approve.
9. If you have a home care company already and would like to find out more about the visits read the communication notes to see what tasks the carer has completed.
10. Hold regular reviews with the care company at least every 6 months but it is better if it is quarterly.