With 90% of seniors strongly preferring to live at home as they age, the challenge for their adult children is to fulfill their parents’ wishes while ensuring their safety and well being. A qualified in home care provider might be the perfect solution. But how do you find the right provider for your senior loved one?

Greg Hartwell, Managing Director & CEO of Homecare California, provides a free report – 7 Key Things to Know Before Hiring In-Home Care in California, which discusses the benefits, options, legal/tax issues and costs of hiring in-home care. Here are some highlights from that report.

Home care is defined as non-medical assistance provided by experienced caregivers. It is focused on activities ranging from basic needs such as meal preparation, medication reminders and companionship, to more sophisticated needs such as bathing, grooming, and incontinence care.

Medicare and private health insurance do not pay for non-medical home care. However, since home care can be limited to only the hours needed, it may initially cost less than an assisted living facility. Once the care moves to 24 hours a day the costs become more comparable.

Hartwell discusses three primary options for home care – full service agency, private caregiver and domestic referral agency (DRA). Since California does not require licensure for home care agencies or private caregivers, it’s important to understand the options and the pros and cons of each. Hartwell’s report includes a handy checklist and interview questions to help in the selection process. Homecare California is actively involved in supporting legislation proposed by the California Association of Health Services at Home (CAHSAH) which would require licensure to protect California seniors. Currently approximately 25 states have licensure requirements.

The decision to hire a home care provider involves many factors – type of care needed, type of provider, cost, tax implications and compliance with federal and state employment laws. Perhaps even more important is having confidence in the individual or agency you are entrusting with the care of your loved one. Hartwell recommends that you check out the following in your vetting process:

• Proof of insurance, etc. – ask about liability insurance, workers compensation, finger printing process, drug testing, etc.
• Testimonials – what do existing clients say about the agency or private caregiver?
• Third Party endorsements – check for third party endorsements through the Better Business Bureau, CAHSAH and others.
• References – be sure to get several references from the agency or private caregiver.

Providing your senior with the ability to age in their home can extend their independence and quality of life. Doing your homework before making a home care selection will provide you with peace of mind.

Get your free copy of the Homecare California report at http://www.homecare-california.com/