With so many caregivers offering similar services, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when your loved one’s safety and well-being are on the line. You’re not just hiring an agency, you’re choosing a partner in care, and asking the right questions can help you make the best choice.
At Premier Companion Care Services, we’ve supported hundreds of families through this process. In this guide, we’ll discuss the 15 most important questions to ask any home care agency, covering everything from licensing to caregiver screening to help you make an informed decision.
If your loved one needs extra support to live at home, get in touch with Premier today. We’ll walk you through your options and match your loved one with a caregiver who fits their needs and personality.
1. Which care services does your agency offer?
Start by understanding the full range of services offered. Ask if they provide medical care, non-medical care, or both, and whether they offer 24-hour care, companion care, dementia care, personal care, or any other specialized services that align with your loved one’s needs.
2. Can you confirm the agency’s licensing and insurance status?
Always verify that the agency is licensed according to state and federal requirements. Also ask if they carry liability insurance to protect both clients and caregivers in case of accidents or injuries at home.
3. What qualifications and certifications do your caregivers hold?
Caregivers should be trained, experienced, and credentialed for their role. Ask about certifications, training programs, and whether ongoing education is required to ensure high standards of care.
4. What is your process for screening and hiring caregivers?
A reputable agency will perform thorough background checks, verify references, and require prior experience. Ask if they provide additional training or have any minimum qualifications for employment.
5. How do you match caregivers to client needs and personalities?
The right caregiver-client match can make all the difference in your loved one’s care. A good agency considers factors like:
- Care needs
- Experience level
- Personality fit
- Availability
They should never assign caregivers at random.
6. What are your scheduling protocols and backup plans?
Caregivers can’t always make every shift, but that shouldn’t impact your loved one’s care. Ask about the agency’s coverage plan and how they manage last-minute absences or emergencies.
7. How are your fees structured and what costs should I expect?
Ask for a clear breakdown of rates—hourly, daily, or live-in—and whether there are minimums or package options. Also clarify:
- Is the contract flexible?
- Are there cancellation fees?
- How much notice is required to cancel or adjust services?
A good agency provides transparency and flexibility, understanding that care needs can change quickly.
8. What emergency procedures do you have in place?
Emergencies happen. Make sure the agency has a written policy for how caregivers and staff respond to emergencies, and that it’s available to you in writing.
9. How do you monitor and ensure ongoing care quality?
Ask how the agency monitors ongoing care. Look for agencies that offer:
- Regular client check-ins
- Family updates
- Supervisory visits
- Performance evaluations for caregivers
You deserve to know how your loved one is doing and how the agency is maintaining a high standard of care.
10. What are your guidelines for family involvement in care?
Make sure the agency explains:
- Who they’re authorized to communicate with
- How they protect patient privacy under HIPAA
- Who is involved in setting up and managing the care plan
A professional agency will respect your privacy and family dynamics.
11. Under what terms can services be ended or canceled?
Care plans may change, and you should never be locked into a long-term contract. Ask:
- How much notice is needed to cancel?
- Are unused service hours refunded?
A good agency will offer flexible termination policies with no penalties.
12. Do you provide extra support services like referrals or transport?
Many reputable agencies go beyond basic caregiving. Ask if they coordinate:
- Therapy services
- Transportation
- Assistance with moving to assisted living
- Referrals to social programs
This concierge-style support can be a huge relief for your family.
13. Can you share testimonials or put me in touch with past clients?
Always ask for testimonials or references from previous clients. Speaking to someone who has worked with the agency before can offer valuable insight into what to expect.
14. What tasks are caregivers allowed or not allowed to perform?Caregivers cannot perform every task, especially medical procedures, so be sure to clarify:
- What they can and cannot do under state and federal regulations
- When tasks require oversight from a nurse or other licensed professional
The agency should clearly explain these boundaries upfront.
15. How does your agency distinguish itself from others?
Ask the agency directly: Why should I trust you with my loved one’s care? They should have a clear, confident answer that reflects their values, service model, and commitment to quality.
If they can’t articulate what makes them different, that’s a red flag.
Next Steps: Choosing the Right Care Setting for Your Loved One with Premier Home Care
Your loved one deserves thoughtful, personalized care from a team you can count on. At Premier Companion Care Services, we’ll answer your questions with honesty, transparency, and compassion to help you make the best choice for your family member.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Let us ease your loved one’s daily life at home.
