How to Choose the Right In-Home Care Provider
Finding the right in-home care provider can feel overwhelming, especially when you're balancing the emotional weight of caring for a loved one with the practical logistics of ensuring their well-being. Whether you're an adult child navigating care options for an aging parent, a spouse seeking additional support, or a senior evaluating your own needs, the decision is deeply personal.
At Expertus, we believe that the process of selecting an in-home care provider should be just as thoughtful and supportive as the care itself. Here’s what you need to know to make a confident, informed choice.
Understand the Types of In-Home Care Services Available
The term "in-home care" covers a broad spectrum of services. It’s important to choose a provider that matches the level of support your loved one needs.
Common in-home care services include:
Companion care: Help with grocery shopping, transportation to appointments, light housekeeping, and social engagement.
Personal care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, and medication reminders.
Specialized support: Skilled help for individuals with chronic conditions or recovering from illness or surgery.
Look Beyond the Basics—Ask the Right Questions
A polished website and warm phone call are only the beginning. Dig deeper to evaluate the provider’s commitment to quality.
Key questions to ask:
How are caregivers trained beyond the state minimum requirements?
Do caregivers shadow experienced staff before working independently?
How frequently are care plans reviewed and updated?
Will the care team collaborate with other providers (doctors, PTs, etc.) to ensure continuity?
What’s the day-to-day involvement with clients and the care team?
At Expertus, we exceed the basic DEHEC-required training. Our caregivers participate in quarterly sessions covering essential topics and evolving best practices. Leadership remains personally connected, conducting unannounced check-ins and maintaining direct communication with families.
Watch for These Red Flags
Choosing a provider should never feel like hiring from a staffing agency. Here are warning signs to look out for:
Minimal or one-time training
No opportunity to meet or interview caregivers
Limited or no involvement from leadership
Lack of interest in your family’s unique dynamics or care history
No process for refining care plans
Compatibility Matters—A Lot
Skill is crucial, but so is connection. Does your loved one prefer someone calm and quiet, or upbeat and talkative? Are there cultural or lifestyle considerations?
At Expertus, we take the time to understand not just care needs, but personalities, preferences, and routines. Clients are encouraged to interview caregivers, and we’re flexible and creative in making the right match.
Agency vs. Private-Hire: What’s the Difference?
While hiring privately may seem less expensive, it often lacks the structure, accountability, and consistency families need. Larger agencies may operate more like staffing firms, focused on volume rather than relationships.
With Expertus we fall perfectly in the middle; you're not just hiring a caregiver—you’re gaining a partner invested in your family's well-being.
Support at Every Step
We don’t expect you to have all the answers. That’s why we created a free downloadable guide: “Questions to Ask Before You Hire an In-Home Care Provider.” It’s a resource designed to empower you with the right questions and avoid common pitfalls.
Whether your loved one is currently in the hospital or you’re just beginning to plan for future needs, we’re here to help you navigate each step with clarity and confidence.
Call Expertus Care—We’ll Take Care of All of This for You.
Download our free guide and schedule a conversation today. The right care makes all the difference.
