Q. What are your rates of service?
A. Because all services and schedules are tailored to the needs of the client, the rate of service for each client is determined at the initial assessment meeting, when our nurse meets with the client and/or the client’s family to get a good idea of the client’s situation and needs. There is no charge for the assessment visit.

Q. Some other companies I’ve called have quoted me a low base rate, but then they add on additional charges if the coverage I need is on a weekend, or if it is after 5 p.m., or if it is less than an 8 hour block. Do you do this?
A. No. Once your rate is determined, it is always the same – whether you are receiving service on days, nights, weekdays or weekends. We feel that this is simplest for our clients and their families. There are no hidden charges. This way the client is never surprised. The only exception is if you receive service on a major holiday (i.e., Christmas, Easter, etc.), in which case there is a slightly higher rate charged for that day.

Q. What is a live-in situation and why would I want to consider it for my parents?
A. The live-in option is a great possibility for clients who would like the security of having someone with their loved one at all times. A live-in companion works directly with the client 8-10 hours per day, has free time to themselves in the evening (but remains in the residence), and sleeps at night. Typically, the live-in rate is less than the cost of hourly around-the-clock care. A live-in is a great alternative for families that want someone around continuously but do not need around-the-clock care.

Q. A friend of mine said it might be cheaper to hire someone through an ad in the newspaper. Should I do this?
A. We would strongly recommend not doing this, as there are a number of risks you take. First of all, this person will not be bonded should any of your valuables turn up missing. They will also likely not be insured for liability within your home. Furthermore, if the person is not reporting their income, you may be held liable for payroll taxes by the government. As well, you could be liable for unemployment benefits should you ever discontinue your relationship with that caregiver. And finally, there is no guarantee that they are properly trained to provide professional, trustworthy service to you or your loved one.

Q. Are your caregivers experienced?
A. Yes, in fact the average age of our employees is 52 years old, which is much more mature than most companies. We have wonderful caregivers and Certified Nursing Assistants who truly have a passion for providing care – and they are OUR employees, thoroughly interviewed, screened and background checked (state and national), trained and oriented, bonded and insured. We try to find caregivers who have had the life experiences of raising their own children as well as caring for their parents or grandparents at some point in the past. We feel that these experiences are invaluable. One of the guiding philosophies of owners Sally and Don Olin is that they will never hire someone that they wouldn’t have felt comfortable placing with her own mothers.

Q. Why do your supervisory nurses come by? Is there something wrong?
A. No. Our nurses make it a point to visit every client on a regular basis. We feel that by staying close to the clients and their assigned caregivers, we are better able to address each individual client’s changing needs.

Q. How quickly can I have a caregiver or CNA if I want to start service for my parent or loved one?
A. Usually, we can place a caregiver with a client within a day or so. Of course, this is always dependent on the location of the client and the hours of coverage being requested.