Frequently Asked Questions
Are you licensed?
Yes! We are licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (#3000197). In fact, we were one of the first Home Services Agencies to be licensed in Illinois. As a licensed agency, we adhere to strict guidelines regarding information disclosure, background checks, the training and supervision of caregivers, plan of care documentation and service standards among other regulations.
What makes Home Helpers different?
Mike and I are personally involved in your care or the care of your loved one. In addition, we believe that we employ the best caregivers. We promise:
- We will never ask you to sign a contract, guarantee a schedule or make an advance payment. You may terminate our services at any time, for any reason, and will owe nothing more than services previously rendered.
- An RN will supervise our caregivers.
- Mike and I will be accessible to clients, family members and caregivers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- We will know all of our clients personally and will always put their interest first. Other than our own family, our clients are our top priority.
- We will take the time to find the best caregiver based on your requirements. She/He will have both the skills to perform the required duties and the personality that will make them a welcome visitor time after time.
- You will always have the opportunity to meet and approve of the caregiver before they start.
- We will strive to have a back-up caregiver available in case the primary caregiver is sick or cannot make it.
- You will always have the final say as to the care plan.
- We will keep all information confidential and respect your privacy.
I’ve never had a caregiver. I don’t know how it will work.
The caregivers are there so that you can remain independent in your home. We will develop a “care plan” together. The caregivers will carry out the plan. Will they be preparing meals, taking you to appointments, doing light housework or simply providing companionship? It’s up to you and it can change whenever you want it to!
What happens if I don’t like the caregiver?
Although we strive for a perfect fit every time, there are situations where the client/caregiver relationship fails to develop as expected. You can change caregivers at any time.
Am I required to commit to a minimum number of hours per day or per week?
No. You can use us 1 hour per month or 24 hours a day. You can have a caregiver 30 hours this week and 10 hours next week. It’s all up to you. We are very flexible. Of course, to retain the same caregiver, it is always better to have a regular schedule.
Will I have the same caregiver each time?
Yes, as long as you have a regular schedule.
Are your services available in retirement communities, nursing homes and assisted living facilities?
Absolutely! We provide care anywhere it is needed.
Will the caregivers eat my food?
No, they bring their own snacks and meals.
Do you have live-in caregivers?
Yes, in addition to our come-and-go caregivers, we have caregivers that can live in your home 24 hours a day.
Who pays the caregivers?
The caregivers are our employees and we are solely responsible for paying for their services. We also pay all payroll taxes, unemployment insurance and Workers Compensation insurance.
How often do you bill me?
We will bill you every two weeks. You can pay by check or by credit card.
Does it cost anything to set up an introductory meeting with you?
No! There is never a charge to have us come out and meet you. It is important for you to meet us face-to-face in order to feel confident in our ability to provide care for you or your loved one.
