How To Find in-Home Care For Aging Parents

Check the internet for information on organizations such as AARP, Seniorcorp, and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging. Check companies’ reputations and business practices with the Better Business Bureau.

Find out whether potential care providers are from an employment agency, a home care agency or are independent contractors.

Ask the agency or contractor about their history, care provider selection process, background checks, drug testing policy, and monitoring and supervision procedures. Include any other relevant questions.

Work with a new provider to develop a standard procedure in case of an emergency.

Determine how the home care will be paid for. There are many options, and each has it’s own provisions. Potential programs include Medicare and Medicaid, coverage under the Older Americans Act (OAA), Veteran’s Administration (VA) coverage and private insurance.