Home Care Definitions

24 HOUR CARE – Refers to ‘around the clock treatment’ in a home environment. The care may be shared by multiple caregivers or by a single caregiver.

24 HOUR CONTACT – Refers to someone being available 24 hours a day to speak with you.

ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA CARE –

Non-skilled care provided for clients with memory issues includes but not limited to establishing a routine, reminders for activities for daily living, rerouting if necessary and assistance with sleep issues or ‘sun downing’. By using creativity and care-giving skills, you can adapt routines and activities as needs change.

BONDED – Being bonded means that a bonding company has secured money that is available to the consumer in the event they file a claim against the company.

HOMEMAKER/COMPANION –

Non-medical assistance with meal preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, errands, activities, outings, companion-ship and other household duties. These agencies are licensed by the state.

INCONTINENCE CARE - Offer the bathroom on a schedule that promotes continence and provide toileting and hygiene care when needed.

INSURED – This refers to what happens if someone gets hurt on the job. If the company isn’t insured, then the claim gets filed against the homeowner’s insurance. If the company is insured, then the claim gets filed against the company’s insurance.

MED-ALERT AVAILABLE – Personal medical alert products activated by pushing a button.

MEDICATION REMINDER – Assistance with reminding an individual about medications but not dispensing medications.

MINIMUM HOURS PER VISIT –This refers to the minimum number of hours that an agency provides service.

RN ON STAFF - Registered Nurse on staff

TRANSPORTATION – Rides to shop-ping, appointments and other outings.

WORKER’S COMP – Insurance that covers medical and rehabilitation costs and lost wages for employees injured at work. ~

Choosing a home care agency can be a challenging task, as it's important to find one that can provide exceptional care and meet individual needs. One option to consider is a franchise-owned agency that is run by the owner on a daily basis. There are several benefits to working with this type of agency.

Firstly, the personalized attention provided by the owner-run agency ensures that clients receive customized service based on their specific needs and preferences. The owner has a direct investment in the success of the company and will work hard to provide the best possible care.

Secondly, an owner-run agency will have local knowledge and strong ties in the community, which can be critical in ensuring that clients receive treatment that is suited to their individual needs.

Thirdly, quality control is emphasized in owner-run agencies, as the owner has a direct stake in the company's success. This focus on maintaining high quality standards can provide clients with peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the best possible care.

Fourthly, franchise-owned agencies have access to resources and assistance from the franchisor, which can ensure consistent service even as the client's needs change over time.

Fifthly, the established reputation of franchise businesses can offer clients reassurance that they are working with a reputable company.

Lastly, access to resources, training, and assistance from the franchisor can help owner-run agencies provide a higher quality of care.

Choosing a home care agency that is part of a franchise but operated by the owner can provide clients with the best of both worlds – the personal touch of a locally-owned business and the resources and support of a well-established brand. The owner emphasizes the importance of a personal home care experience to best meet the needs of clients.

Written by Wolfgang Willems with Assisting Hands® Home Care www.assistinghands.com/92/texas/frisco