Uplifting In-Home Care Services for Seniors & Other Adults
Let our caregivers help where it matters most with a unique care plan adapted to your needs
Frequently Asked Questions
About In-Home Care
What is Home Care?
In-home care generally refers to non-medical support provided in the home, such as companionship, personal care, and homemaking services. Skilled medical care, such as nursing, speech therapy, or physical and occupational therapy, is usually referred to as home health. In-home care allows your loved one to receive the assistance they need while maintaining independence in their own home.
What is Live-In Care?
Live-in care is similar to home care, but the caregiver resides in the home to provide continuous support.
What Does a Caregiver Do?
A caregiver helps seniors and other adults at home by supporting their physical well-being and social health. This includes providing companionship, personal care, mobility and safety assistance, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation to appointments or social events, and activities that promote engagement, connection, and purpose.
If you are interested in becoming a caregiver, visit our careers page for more information.
What is Aging in Place?
Aging in place refers to seniors who choose to stay in their own home as they grow older, rather than moving to an independent or assisted living facility. According to AARP, most seniors prefer to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Aging in place allows seniors to maintain independence, familiarity, and comfort while receiving the care and support they need.
- Seniors who remain in their own homes enjoy the stability of familiar communities and the comfort of being surrounded by friends and family.
- Familiar surroundings and cherished belongings can foster connection and peace. For seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, a known environment can reduce confusion and support mental engagement.
- Staying at home also avoids the stress of relocating and adjusting to new surroundings. In many cases, aging in place can be more cost-effective than moving to a care facility while supporting independence and quality of life.
What is a Home Health Aide?
The terms home health aide and caregiver are often used interchangeably. A home health aide provides companionship, personal care, and other services that enhance quality of life. This may include mobility and safety assistance, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation to appointments or social events, and activities that encourage engagement, connection, and purpose.
What Are ADLs and IADLs?
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are basic tasks essential for day-to-day functioning, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, mobility, and toileting. Some seniors may need help with only one or two ADLs while remaining largely independent.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) support a higher level of independence and quality of life. These include shopping, paying bills, household chores, laundry, and meal preparation.
Seniors and adults who need assistance at home may require support with ADLs, IADLs, or both. At Further Care Agency, we offer a wide range of companionship and in-home care services, all tailored to each individual through a customized Plan of Care that addresses their unique needs and preferences.
About Comfort Keepers
What services does Further Care Agency provide?
Further Care Agency helps seniors and other adults who need assistance at home live their best quality of life. Services may include support for aging parents, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, mobility assistance, and a variety of personal and companion care services.
Our in-home care focuses on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of each client. Companion care may include meal preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, grocery shopping, transportation, medication reminders, grooming, and live-in support. Personal care services can include bathing, grooming, hygiene, mobility assistance, transferring or positioning, toileting, incontinence care, and feeding or special diet support. Additional services may include dementia or Alzheimer’s care, private duty nursing, and in-home safety technology solutions. Services vary by location.
How are caregivers selected?
Every Further Care Agency caregiver is an employee who undergoes a rigorous screening and training process. This includes national and local criminal background checks, DMV records, and professional and personal reference checks. All caregivers are bonded, insured, and covered by Workers’ Compensation. Caregivers are selected for empathy, trained to provide high-quality care, and matched to clients based on compatibility.
Are services available 24/7?
Yes. Care is available for as little as a few hours per visit or up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round.
Does Further Care Agency offer Private Duty Nursing?
When traditional home care or a family caregiver is not sufficient, a private duty nurse can provide the level of care needed at home rather than in a facility. Services vary by location, so contact your local office to discuss your needs.
How much does in-home care cost?
Each Further Care Agency office is independently owned and operated. Contact your local office for details about available services and rates in your area.
Can services be provided on short notice?
Yes. We understand that unexpected situations may arise, and we can provide care on an as-needed basis.
What is a Plan of Care?
We develop a custom, individualized, and confidential Plan of Care for each client. It outlines the services needed, schedules, and goals to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Plans are reviewed regularly with clients and families to ensure goals are being met and new needs are addressed.
How is my caregiver assigned?
During the initial consultation and in-home visit, the Client Care Coordinator documents the client’s needs and preferences. The coordinator then selects the best caregiver and arranges an introduction. The Plan of Care is reviewed to ensure agreement on the services to be provided.
What if my caregiver is sick or on vacation?
Each office maintains a team of caregivers to ensure continuity of care. If your caregiver is unavailable, the Client Care Coordinator will assign an interim caregiver, contact you in advance, and review the Plan of Care with the temporary caregiver.
What is Interactive Caregiving?
Interactive Caregiving focuses on doing activities with clients rather than simply doing them for them. Caregivers encourage participation and engagement, fostering relationships and keeping clients mentally and physically active. This approach enhances quality of life and promotes meaningful connection for both clients and their families.
What safety protocols are in place during COVID-19?
Client safety is our top priority. Caregivers receive training in infectious disease control, are provided with personal protective equipment, and follow CDC recommendations. Caregivers are screened for illness before each visit and stay home if they are sick.
What is GrandPad?
GrandPad is a simple, secure tablet designed to help seniors stay connected with family, friends, and caregivers. It allows video calls, games, and other basic apps to foster engagement and connection. Visit our Care Services page to learn more.
About Types of Care
What is Transitional Care?
In-home care is often essential for individuals transitioning home after a hospital stay, procedure, or rehabilitation facility. Recovery at home can be more comfortable and effective when supported by a professional caregiver.
Further Care Agency can provide a custom care plan for transitional care, including transportation home from the hospital or facility and to scheduled follow-up appointments and therapy sessions.
In addition to physical recovery, patients may experience anxiety or depression when normal routines and social activities are disrupted. Our caregivers provide companionship, support physician-prescribed exercise programs, assist with transportation to community events, and help families stay connected through technology.
What is Companion Care?
Companion care, or companionship, includes meal preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, grocery shopping and errands, transportation to appointments and social events, reminders for grooming and medication, respite care, and communication with a client’s loved ones. Further Care Agency also emphasizes activities that bring joy, provide mental stimulation, and promote physical and emotional well-being.
What is Personal Care?
Our trained caregivers assist with personal care needs based on each client’s requirements, ranging from stand-by assistance to full care. Services may include bathing, mobility assistance, position changes for bedbound clients, incontinence and toileting care, meal preparation, specialized care for memory issues or cognitive impairments, fall risk assessment, change in condition monitoring, and support with outings and social activities. Personal care supports basic activities of daily living (ADLs).
What is Light Housekeeping?
Light housekeeping provides seniors with a safe, clean, and organized home environment. Tasks can include disinfecting surfaces, cleaning counters and floors, dusting, decluttering, vacuuming, and taking out the trash. Individualized care plans are tailored to each client’s abilities and preferences, and many seniors enjoy participating in household tasks alongside their caregiver.
What is Respite Care?
Respite care is the temporary transfer of primary caregiving responsibilities to another person, such as a professional caregiver, relative, or friend, so family caregivers can rest and recharge. Respite care can be scheduled for a few hours per day or week, or for longer periods to accommodate an extended break or vacation.
Respite care may include companionship or personal care depending on the client’s needs.
What is Private Duty Nursing?
Private duty nurses provide one-on-one medical care in the comfort of the client’s home or facility. Nurses are Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and work in partnership with the family to provide customized care tailored to the client’s needs.
What is End-of-Life Care?
End-of-life care supports individuals with limited life expectancy who wish to remain at home. Further Care Agency works with hospice agencies or medical providers to meet the physical, emotional, and household needs of the client. Caregivers provide assistance around the home and offer moral and emotional support to family members, helping reduce stress during a difficult time.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care?
Further Care Agency understands the challenges families face when caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Our caregivers are trained to provide specialized care that supports meaningful engagement, builds authentic relationships, and follows a care plan that evolves with the client’s needs. Families receive comprehensive support to ensure their loved ones live safely, comfortably, and with dignity.
Specially trained caregivers who understand the unique needs of seniors with dementia
Family education to help loved ones better understand dementia and its challenges
Engaging activities built into the care plan, tailored to the senior’s interests to stimulate physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing
Comprehensive in-home services including personal care, companionship, medication reminders, and family respite care
In-home safety technologies such as medical alert systems and motion detectors to enhance security and peace of mind
What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?
Hospice and palliative care are related but not the same. Hospice care focuses on a person’s final months of life, typically six months or less, when a cure is no longer possible. The hospice team works to make the remaining time as comfortable as possible, addressing physical symptoms, emotional needs, and spiritual concerns.
Palliative care, on the other hand, also aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life but can be provided alongside treatments intended to cure or manage an illness. Palliative care can be delivered at any stage of a serious illness, providing comfort and support while medical treatment continues.
About COVID-19 Precautions
How do you keep my loved one safe during visits?
Before each visit, caregivers and clients are confirmed to be free of COVID-19 symptoms and high-risk exposures, following current CDC guidance.
If a caregiver or client shows symptoms, Further Care Agency follows national and local reporting guidelines.
Caregivers follow a strict protocol to stay home if they are ill for any reason.
Caregivers are trained in best practices for infection prevention and control.
Caregivers wear face masks in the home and within six feet of clients.
Hygiene procedures follow CDC recommendations, including:
Frequent handwashing with soap and water
Routine use of hand sanitizer with 70% alcohol or higher
Proper coughing and sneezing techniques
Is my caregiver tested regularly?
COVID-19 testing requirements for caregivers may vary by state; check with your local Further Care Agency office for updates.
All caregivers and clients are screened daily for COVID-19 symptoms and recent exposure to anyone suspected or confirmed to have the virus. Quarantine and testing are conducted following local health authority guidelines.
Caregivers are required to wear masks, and clients and others in the home are encouraged to wear face coverings when within six feet of the caregiver.
Testing only represents a moment in time; consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper hand hygiene, and daily symptom and exposure monitoring are the best ways to prevent infection.
How can I help keep my loved one from feeling isolated or depressed?
Maintaining social connections is important for seniors’ quality of life and overall health. Thoughtful planning can help seniors stay engaged, especially during times of social distancing or limited in-person contact. Strategies include:
Regularly Scheduled Phone and Video Chats – Frequent calls and check-ins help seniors maintain connections with friends and family near and far. Many free video meeting options are available, and families may consider gifting a tablet or other device for seniors who don’t already have one.
Togetherness Activities – Planning shared activities helps reduce feelings of isolation. Virtual or in-home activities can include conversation, cooking or eating together, reading, playing games, scrapbooking, or listening to music. Studies show that anticipating and looking forward to activities can provide mental health benefits as well.
Online Interaction – Seniors can participate in virtual meetups, online worship services, hobby-focused communities, or social events like Facebook trivia night. These options allow meaningful social engagement without leaving home.
Virtual Volunteering – For seniors seeking purpose, volunteering from home is a great option. Activities can include assembling care packages for children’s charities, sewing quilts for shelters, writing cards to military service members overseas, and other ways to give back safely.
Isolation and loneliness can be signs that a senior lacks the support and tools needed to live a healthy, independent life. However, with planning and deliberate action, fostering positive relationships and connections can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved. For more tips, visit Senior Isolation.
What can I do to protect my loved ones?
Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, including under nails, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when hands are not soiled or wet
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as these are entry points for viruses
Encourage anyone present in the home to wear a mask when within six feet of the caregiver while they are providing care
Avoid contact with people who are sick
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, dispose of the tissue properly, and wash hands afterward
Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as phones, remotes, doorknobs, faucets, steering wheels, counters, and tabletops
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest to support your immune system
Have a family emergency preparedness plan that includes care coverage and backup support
Stay at home and avoid others if feeling ill or after potential exposure to illness
Avoid crowds and practice social distancing, keeping at least six feet from others whenever possible
What type of training has my caregiver received?
Our caregivers at Further Care Agency have been trained in infection control, COVID-19 screening and reporting protocols, and the proper use and wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE).
About Paying for In-Home Care
How much does in-home care cost?
The cost of in-home care varies depending on your state, individual circumstances, and the type and level of care required.
How much does 24/7 in-home care cost?
The best way to determine the cost of 24/7 care for you or your loved one is to speak with a professional care coordinator. Contact a Further Care Agency office to discuss your options.
How much does companion care cost?
Companion care costs vary based on each client’s individual needs and location. Schedule a free care consultation to create a custom care plan that meets your needs and budget.
Who pays for senior care?
Common ways to pay for senior care include private pay or out-of-pocket, long-term care insurance, Veterans Administration (VA) Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit, and select Medicaid or state programs.
Does the VA pay for in-home care?
Veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for VA benefits to cover some of the cost of in-home care. VA programs are designed for those who meet specific financial criteria and demonstrate a physical need for care. Contact Further Care Agency to learn more about in-home care and VA benefits.
Does long-term care insurance cover in-home care?
Long-term care insurance may help cover the cost of care. A local Further Care Agency office can assist with paperwork and guide you on how to use this specialized coverage.
Does Medicare cover or pay for in-home care?
Medicare does not cover in-home care. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited coverage depending on your state and plan details. Check your plan for additional information.
Does Medicaid cover or pay for in-home care?
Medicaid may cover certain in-home care services. A Medicaid provider or Further Care Agency office can provide guidance on coverage and eligibility.
We focus on guidance and education so families feel confident in their decisions.
How We Help You Choose the Right Services
Our team takes time to understand your situation before recommending any services. We consider mobility, health needs, living environment, and personal preferences to ensure practical solutions.
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FAQ
You Can Find All Answers Here
Some services may be available to non clients. Contact our team to discuss availability.
Yes, we provide personalized guidance based on individual care needs and home environments.
Many services are designed to support and enhance the care provided by our caregivers.
Yes, safety focused services can help reduce risks and improve confidence at home.