Assisting Hands Home Care answers commonly asked questions about home care services:
Home Care Services
Does your agency provide transportation?
Our caregivers do provide transportation for those in their care, and they can use their own car or your car. They can drive to help with errands and getting to doctor appointments, family gatherings, and other important events.
Do I have to commit to a minimum number of hours of service?
We have many flexible hour options. Talk to one of our professionals for more information.
Can I cancel my service at any time?
Yes, but we ask that you please give at least 24 hours’ notice before cancelling.
Can I change my service or schedule?
Our care plans and schedules are flexible so you can change them. We ask that you please give us 24 hours’ notice for any changes in the care or schedule.
In-Home Caregivers
What are the qualifications of the people who train your caregivers?
Our caregivers are trained by physical therapists, former hospital administrators, and certified dementia practitioners (CPDs).
Are the caregivers insured, bonded, licensed, and background checked?
Yes, each caregiver must pass a thorough background check prior to employment. Our caregivers are also licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection.
How are your caregivers supervised?
Our caregivers are supervised by our owners who are licensed physical therapists, and our licensed clinical counselor.
How long does it take you to place a caregiver?
We can have a caregiver in your loved one’s home in 24 hours.
Who should I contact with questions about my caregiver?
Call us at (630) 305-9100 with your questions and concerns.
Do I pay the caregiver directly or tip the caregiver?
No, you will get a weekly invoice to pay for the care.
What if my caregiver does not show up for a scheduled shift?
We will always be able to send a caregiver to cover for your normal caregiver.
Will I always have the same caregiver?
Yes, we assign one caregiver to each patient. If your regular caregiver cannot make it, we will send another caregiver to the home.
What if my caregiver is not a good fit for me?
We always assign a caregiver who is a great match for our clients and if you are not happy with your caregiver, we can make changes.
Who answers the phone after hours if there is an emergency?
Our owners are on call 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies.
Home Care Agency
Is the agency licensed?
Yes, we are licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and we are certified by the Veteran’s Administration (VA).
What are the home care benefits for veterans?
VA Home Health Aide (HHA) Homemaker/ Home Health Program – Contracted Provider
This program provides veterans the opportunity to receive home care services:
- Up to 12 hours per week
- Includes an interdisciplinary assessment (GEC) from RN, SW, and MD
- Patient must have three or more ADL dependencies or significant cognitive impairment
VA Spinal Cord/ ALS Program – Contracted Provider
- Up to 15 hours per week
- Includes an interdisciplinary assessment (GEC) from RN, SW, and MD
- Patient must have three or more ADL dependencies or significant cognitive impairment
VA Respite Program – Contracted Provider
This program provides veterans the opportunity to receive home care services on a temporary basis:- Includes an interdisciplinary assessment (GEC) from RN, SW, and MD
- Patient must have three or more ADL dependencies or significant cognitive impairment
Pension Program
VA Aid and Attendance 2014 rates: $2085 for veteran and spouse, $1758 for single veteran, and $1130 for surviving spouse.- Veteran must have served 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during time of war.
- Assets: many variables considered
- Financial need: Less income each year than the cost of care provided, including home care costs, AL or NH.
Senior Care / Aging Parents
My mom is healthy, but I worry about her being at home alone all day. Do you offer companionship services for people like her?
Yes we do, our caregivers can be a good companion for your senior loved ones and engage them in the following activities:
- Transportation
- Reading a book out loud
- Playing games
- Going for walks
- Writing letters
- Monitoring the home
What are the common conditions in older adults who receive home care?
Adults who receive home care may be affected by arthritis, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, CHF, Stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
My parents need some home modifications to make their home safe. Can you help advise us on installing grab bars and ramps?
Yes, we can advise you on installing grab bars, ramps, and any other home modifications needed.
My brothers and sisters live all over the country. How can we all stay informed about your home care services?
We have a family portal in which family members can check on the schedules, invoices, and communication involving your loved ones’ care.
General Questions
What payment options do you accept?
We accept the following payment options: long-term care insurance, self pay, VA assistance, collective sibling agreement, reverse mortgage, and others. Talk to our staff to learn more about our payment options.
Who will I meet at the initial in-home consultation?
You will meet our owners and our counselor who will assess your care needs and discuss your care options with you.
Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation
Need more information? Call Assisting Hands Home Care at (630) 634-9316 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
