How to Choose Between New Jersey Home Care Agencies

When a family learns that a loved one needs daily medical assistance, the decision must be made on what option will be the best fit for the entire family. While skilled nursing facilities are available for short and long term care, many families prefer for their relative to remain at home for their care. That is where New Jersey home care agencies can help families keep their loved one at home living independently as long as possible.

Referrals for Home Care Agencies NJ
When choosing home care agencies NJ residents will want to find quality companies that offer affordable rates for the needed home services. Many families learn of New Jersey home care agencies by word of mouth referrals from friends, coworkers or other family members. Religious congregations and social clubs can also be a help in finding home care agencies NJ families can use for getting medical care and assistance for a family member. Medical doctors and other health firms usually also provide referrals and resources to help locate the right agency.

Background of New Jersey Home Care Agencies
When there are a few New Jersey home care agencies that are interesting, it is important to visit each office and learn as much as possible about the services the company provides, pricing, client testimonials and caregiver backgrounds. Find out as much as possible about the agency and ask for references. Learn about any rewards the agency may have.

Certification
Make sure to check qualifications of nursing and caregiver staff employed by New Jersey home care agencies. Most home care agencies NJ aides are certified by the Nursing Board so up-to-date information can be obtained by contacting the board. The agency itself will be able to tell you if they offer caregivers with expertise in specialized illness, disease or injury such as Alzheimer’s, brain injury or geriatrics.

Private Caregiver vs. Home Care Agencies NJ
It might be tempting to hire a private caregiver from a local newspaper ad or a friend’s suggestion about another friend who provides care as a second job. Certainly, private individuals can seem to be more affordable than New Jersey home care agencies. But families should be aware that when hiring private parties, they are responsible for all background checks, drug testing fees, payroll taxes and wages as well as keeping them insured. Hiring private caregivers can also put a family at risk for potential legal liability. Home care agencies NJ providers are licensed, bonded and insured so families will not have to worry about all the issues surrounding hiring an independent worker.

There are many issues families need to consider when seeking the services of New Jersey home care agencies. Using professional providers will save both time and money in the long run and keep families from the headache of handling everything themselves.