Home Care: You Get What You Pay For
By Kristin Stetler Donovan, Owner
Aging In Place Senior Care Service
My mother had a saying I remember well, “You always get what you pay for.” And that’s definitely true when it comes to selecting a home care provider for yourself or your loved one.
For most, if not all of us, there has been or there will be a time that either we or a loved one needs outside companionship or assistance with personal care. There is one thing for sure and only one thing that we are guaranteed, we will all age. Unfortunately, as the aging process occurs, we are left with needs of our own or those of family members that we cannot complete ourselves and require assistance.
In the last eleven years I have helped many families navigate different care options. There are three basic types of care: PASA – Personal Assistance Service Agency, Aide Only and Skilled Care. Depending on your care needs these are the agencies licensed by the State of Delaware to assist you with your needs.
The State of Delaware maintains a website with all agencies legally operating in New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties. When searching for care this website is available and updated regularly to guide you as you choose an agency. Sometimes people are taken back by the cost of home care, but unfortunately, as the cost of doing business has increased the rates have increased as well. Licensed home care agencies are required to meet state code and regulation standards as well as carry an abundance of insurance.
It has become increasingly challenging to find staff devoted to caring for seniors to the point that it is now an industrywide issue. As challenging as the climate of home care has become, we as agency owners are committed to complying with state requirements for hiring and service provision to protect our most vulnerable population, seniors.
There are other options available. There are many unlicensed providers and many private duty options. These are viable options for care, however, and are not regulated by the State of Delaware. They are not required to do background checks, provide any training or have insurance etc.
As the cost of care increases it has become challenging for some to find care or cost-effective care. That being said, if you are looking to find care for yourself or a loved one, it is very important to know what the difference is when you speak to all of the different providers that exist. I’ve listed some important questions to ask that might help you make an educated decision outside of cost that might assist you in finding the best possible care for you and/or your family.
The number one question is cost, which is completely understandable, but safety is and should always be of paramount concern. The State of Delaware mandates that agencies have a candidate for care get fingerprints, are drug tested, and are background checked for sexual abuse, child abuse and senior abuse. Applicants also require a physical, TB test and require references to work with our senior clients.
Some additional questions you might consider might be: Does your group or do you carry any liability insurance? Do you carry Workman’s Compensation that covers an injury sustained in the home where services are provided? Or, what happens if you or one of your staff calls out? Do you provide a replacement or is the family required to find a solution when there is a call out? Also, are there any training or continuing education requirements? These are just a few of the topics to cover when discussing care options with anyone that you might encounter offering to provide care for you or your loved one.
As previously stated, my mother had a saying, “You always get what you pay for.” With a licensed provider, although the cost may be more, the most important thing is that you get the peace of mind knowing that there is compliance regarding hiring and safety, as well as coverage in the event that something unplanned happens.
I have always said “Even if my agency is not the correct solution for you, it is our goal to help you find the care that you need and desire.” If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our office 302-722-8240 and we would be happy to discuss care options with you or guide you through the process.
Testimonials
“Meant to call and tell you how much we enjoyed the caregiver. We definitely plan to use her again, thanks.” ~ Alice S.
“Thank you so much for your extraordinary service and level of professionalism. If you ever need a reference I am happy to provide.” ~ Ann M.
“Thank you so much for taking care of my Dad these last several years. Your support allowed him to live with dignity and independence he otherwise would not have experienced. We are forever grateful for your service and dedication.” ~ Mike R.
(302) 722-8240
5586 Kirkwood Highway
Wilmington, DE 19808
