How long does it take to get a caregiver started?
Typically, the time frame ranges from a few days to about a week. In order for Helping Hands to do its due diligence (initial evaluations, reviewing the specifics of the case, contacting potential caregivers, making arrangements for the client to meet the potential caregiver, and finally scheduling a start date) we need a little time. Almost never will it take more than one week and in emergency situations, where someone is needed right away, we can expedite the process to a certain extent.
Are services covered under private insurance or Medicare?
Most private insurances do not cover personal care services. However, specific types of insurance like Long Term Care Insurance, workmen’s compensation, and automobile insurance often do. Unfortunately, Medicare does not. Please feel free to click here (http://www.medicare.gov/LongTermCare/Static/Medicare.asp) to view Medicares Eligibility Tool. Most often, payments are made privately by the client or a family member.
I’m worried about a stranger in my home. Can you assure me I am safe?
Expectantly, many people are not comfortable with a new person coming into their home. This is why Helping Hands takes several measures to ensure safety and security with our staff.
In addition to State of New Jersey’s Certification process, which includes a criminal background check, Helping Hands also performs its own criminal background check through an independent security company. Next, we contact prior employers and personal references from the potential caregivers past, to access the individual’s character. Finally, as a part of our in-house training program we emphasize the necessity of ethical conduct. Caregivers are presented with certain ethical situations and asked to respond accordingly. Failure to recognize major ethical dilemmas or answers which suggest dishonesty will always exclude an applicant from employment.
Is this person going to come into my home and take over?
No. At Helping Hands we stress the need for the caregiver to respect the client’s home and environment. Caregivers will work according to the mutually agreed upon “plan of care” along with the client, to get the job done using the methods the client indicates. We understand and relish that everyone is different. We all run our home in our own unique way. Every consideration will be made to preserve the client’s way of life.
What hours can I reach someone from Helping Hands?
A care manager is always available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for emergencies which may arise. Obviously, for non-emergency situations we prefer to be contacted during regular business hours but rest assured that when you need us we will be there.
Can services be provided in other settings than the home?
Yes. Often, we are approached by families who have a loved one residing in an assisted living facility, nursing home, or hospital who feel that the individual requires more attention. Helping Hands has placed many caregivers to supplement services provided by these facilities to give their loved one some continuity to the care and the one on one attention which is desired.
Do I select the aid that is going to assist me?
Helping Hands wants our clients and their families to be involved in the selection process. After our initial evaluation, where we take into account the clients needs and wants in a caregiver, we will select several caregivers who possess the skills and experience indicated by the client. From there Helping Hands will separately introduce these caregivers to the client and family members so they can choose who they feel is the best fit for their unique situation.
Will I always get the same caregiver?
Helping Hands strives to offer the most continuity to the care it provides. We will make every effort to provide the same caregiver as much of the time as possible.
What happens if my caregiver can not make a visit?
Don’t Worry. We employ a full staff of individuals and can almost always get a replacement out in case of emergency. We understand that many of our clients rely on us to function on a daily basis. This is why we always have caregivers on call to fill-in when problems arise.
What if the aids starts and I decide I do not like them?
Naturally, we try our very best to find the best fit for each case the first time around. However, from time to time a change needs to be made. Helping Hands takes all of the circumstances into account and will provide a new caregiver, almost always without any lapse of coverage.
