Frequently Asked Question
1. What makes your caregivers different from others?
Our caregivers stand out because we prioritize more than just skill and training—we focus on compassion, empathy, and building meaningful relationships. Each caregiver goes through a thorough vetting process, not only for their professional qualifications but also for their ability to connect with people on a personal level. We believe that care isn’t just about completing tasks; it’s about making your loved one feel valued, comfortable, and supported in a way that feels like family. Plus, we match caregivers based on your loved one’s unique needs and personality, ensuring the right fit for a lasting relationship.
2. How do you match a caregiver with my loved one’s personality and needs?
We take great care in matching a caregiver with your loved one by looking beyond just their physical needs. First, we have an in-depth conversation with you to understand your loved one’s personality, preferences, hobbies, and any specific concerns. We also consider factors like communication style, daily routines, and any emotional or social support they may need. Then, we match them with a caregiver whose skills, personality, and approach to care align with these details. It’s about finding someone who not only meets their care requirements but also makes them feel comfortable and understood. We want your loved one to build a connection with their caregiver, making their experience positive and enriching.
Needs Match: We Match the Care Level Need with the Caregiver Level of Care.
3. Will I have the same caregiver every day, or do they change?
We prioritize the well-being of both our clients and caregivers to ensure the highest quality of care. To avoid overworking any caregiver and to keep them in top shape, we try to assign a dedicated team of caregivers to each client. This way, your loved one will have a small, consistent group of caregivers covering shifts, rather than one person handling all the hours. It ensures that every caregiver is fresh, focused, and able to provide the best care possible. While you may see a couple of different faces, our goal is to create a reliable, supportive team for your loved one.
4. What if my loved one doesn’t like the caregiver you’ve assigned?
We understand how important it is for your loved one to feel comfortable and at ease with their caregiver. If for any reason the caregiver we’ve assigned isn’t the right fit, we’ll work closely with you to address the situation. Your feedback is valuable, and we want to make sure your loved one is receiving care from someone they connect with. We’ll listen to your concerns and make adjustments, whether that means finding a new caregiver or exploring different options to ensure a better match. Our priority is your loved one’s happiness and well-being, so we’re always here to help make things right.
5. Can I request male or female caregivers based on my loved one’s comfort level?
Yes, absolutely! We understand that personal comfort is key when it comes to in-home care, and we respect your loved one’s preferences. Whether you or your loved one feel more comfortable with a male or female caregiver, we will do our best to accommodate that request. Our goal is to create a care environment that feels safe, respectful, and tailored to your loved one’s needs. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll work to make sure the right caregiver is assigned.
6. What kind of training do your caregivers go through?
Our caregivers undergo comprehensive training that not only meets but exceeds the mandatory requirements set by the State of California. Each caregiver starts with the essential state-mandated training to ensure they’re fully equipped to provide high-quality care. From there, we provide ongoing education and development opportunities, allowing our caregivers to grow and advance in their roles. Our training program is designed with four levels, so caregivers can continuously enhance their skills—from foundational care techniques at Level 1 to more specialized care expertise at Level 4. This structured approach ensures that our caregivers are always learning, improving, and staying up-to-date on best practices to provide the best possible care for your loved one
7. Are your caregivers certified in CPR and first aid?
While CPR and first aid certification are not required for caregivers, many of our caregivers have voluntarily completed this training, and we strongly encourage all of them to become certified. We believe it’s an important skill that enhances their ability to provide safe, effective care. For those caregivers who are not yet certified, we offer opportunities and support to pursue this training. If having a caregiver with CPR and first aid certification is a priority for your family, we will do our best to match you with someone who meets that requirement.
8. Can your caregivers help with specialized needs like Alzheimer’s or dementia care?
Yes, many of our caregivers are trained to provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. We understand that caring for someone with these conditions requires patience, understanding, and specific skills. Our caregivers receive ongoing training to stay updated on the best practices for dementia care, including techniques to support memory, manage behavior changes, and provide a calming, structured environment. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, we’ll match them with a caregiver who is experienced in handling these unique challenges, ensuring they receive compassionate and knowledgeable care.
9. How do you ensure the caregivers are trustworthy and reliable?
We take the trust you place in us very seriously. To ensure our caregivers are trustworthy and reliable, we follow a rigorous screening and hiring process. This includes thorough background checks, reference checks, and interviews to assess both their professional qualifications and their personal integrity. Additionally, each caregiver goes through a comprehensive orientation and training to ensure they meet our high standards of care. We also regularly monitor performance through client feedback and ongoing assessments, so you can feel confident that your loved one is in capable and reliable hands. Trust and reliability are at the heart of everything we do.- What services can your caregivers provide?
Our caregivers provide a wide range of services tailored to your loved one’s needs. These include help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility assistance. They can also assist with meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, and running errands. Additionally, our caregivers offer companionship, medication reminders, and support with transportation to appointments. If your loved one has specialized needs, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s care, we have trained caregivers who can provide that as well. We work with you to create a customized care plan to ensure your loved one receives the right level of support.
- What does “Activities of Daily Living (ADL)” support include?
"Activities of Daily Living" (ADLs) support covers the fundamental tasks your loved one needs assistance with to live safely and comfortably. Our caregivers help with all six core ADLs:
- Bathing – Assisting with personal hygiene, including showering or bathing.
- Dressing – Helping your loved one put on clothes and ensure they are appropriately dressed for the day.
- Grooming – Support with tasks like brushing hair, oral care, and general grooming.
- Toileting – Assistance with using the bathroom or incontinence care.
- Transferring – Helping your loved one move safely from bed to chair or standing up.
- Feeding – Assistance with eating, ensuring proper nutrition.
These services help maintain your loved one’s independence and dignity while receiving the care and support they need.
- Can your caregivers help with medication reminders?
Yes, our caregivers can provide medication reminders to ensure your loved one takes their medications on time. However, they are not permitted to administer medications directly. If your loved one requires hands-on medication management or support with administering medications, we recommend hiring our nurse for that level of care. Our team works together to make sure your loved one’s health needs are fully met, while always adhering to safety and legal guidelines.
- Can your caregivers assist with transportation to appointments or errands?
Yes, our caregivers can assist with transportation to appointments or errands, provided we’ve checked the liability and safety for both parties. We ensure that the caregiver is able to safely assist with transportation needs, whether using their own vehicle or your loved one’s. If, for any reason, the caregiver is unable to assist with transportation, one of our office staff members can step in to help. Our goal is to make sure your loved one gets where they need to go safely and reliably.
- Can your caregivers help with household chores and meal prep?
Yes, our caregivers can assist with light household chores and meal preparation. In fact, whenever possible, we encourage caregivers to involve your loved one in meal prep as a way to keep them engaged and active. Whether it's helping with simple tasks like stirring, setting the table, or choosing ingredients, this involvement can provide a sense of accomplishment and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. In addition to ensuring that your loved one enjoys nutritious meals, we believe that incorporating them into the process adds a meaningful and enjoyable activity to their day.
- What if I only need care for a few hours a day?
If you only need care for a few hours a day, we can certainly accommodate that. Our minimum requirement is a 4-hour shift per visit, with at least 20 hours of care per week. This structure ensures consistent care, allowing our caregivers to build a strong, trusting relationship with your loved one and maintain a routine that promotes comfort and stability. Consistency in caregiving is key to ensuring your loved one receives the attention they need, and it helps both the caregiver and your loved one feel more connected and secure in their daily care routine.
- Do you offer care outside of normal business hours, such as evenings or weekends?
Absolutely! Care doesn’t follow business hours, and neither do we. We offer flexible care options that extend to evenings, weekends, and even overnight shifts when needed. No matter the time of day, we’re here to ensure your loved one has the support they need, whenever they need it. Our focus is on providing consistent and reliable care, so you can rest easy knowing that help is always available, no matter the hour.
- How involved can I be in my loved one’s care plan?
We encourage you to be as involved as you'd like in your loved one’s care plan. Your input is invaluable, and we believe that collaboration between family members, caregivers, and our team leads to the best outcomes. From the initial planning stages to regular updates, you can actively participate in shaping the care plan, adjusting it as needs change, and providing ongoing feedback. We’re here to support both you and your loved one, and we’ll work closely with you to ensure their care is tailored to your expectations and their well-being.
- Will the caregiver communicate with my loved one’s doctor or healthcare provider?
No, our caregivers do not communicate directly with healthcare providers. However, if you need assistance with managing your loved one’s healthcare coordination, we offer a dedicated staff person who can help. This staff member can assist in communicating with doctors, scheduling appointments, and ensuring that important medical information is shared. This allows your loved one to receive the necessary support without placing additional responsibilities on the caregiver, ensuring their care remains focused and seamless.
- How do I know how much care my loved one really needs?
Determining how much care your loved one needs can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to guide you through the process. We start with a comprehensive assessment of your loved one’s daily routine, physical health, cognitive abilities, and overall well-being. This allows us to identify specific areas where they may need support, whether it’s assistance with daily activities, personal care, or companionship. We’ll work closely with you to create a personalized care plan that fits their unique needs, and we’ll regularly review and adjust it as those needs evolve. You don’t have to figure it out alone—we’ll help you every step of the way.
- How flexible are your care plans if my loved one’s needs change?
Our care plans are designed to be flexible and adapt to your loved one’s changing needs. As time goes on, your loved one may require more or less support, and we’re fully prepared to adjust the care plan accordingly. We regularly review their care and encourage ongoing communication with you to ensure we’re meeting their current needs. Whether it's increasing the level of assistance, adding new services, or reducing hours, we work with you to make sure the care plan evolves as your loved one’s situation changes. Your loved one’s well-being is our priority, and we’re committed to providing the right care at the right time.
- How do you ensure the safety and security of my loved one?
We prioritize your loved one’s safety and security by implementing several measures. All of our caregivers go through a thorough background check, including criminal history, references, and qualifications. We also provide ongoing training to ensure caregivers follow best practices in safety and care. Additionally, we perform regular check-ins and assessments to ensure the quality of care remains high. We also encourage clear communication with family members to provide peace of mind, so you can be confident that your loved one is in safe, capable hands.
- What happens if the caregiver can't make it to an appointment?
In the rare event that a caregiver is unable to make it to an appointment, we have a backup system in place. We will notify you immediately and arrange for another qualified caregiver from our team to step in, ensuring that your loved one is never left without care. Our goal is to provide uninterrupted service, so we maintain a reliable team of caregivers to handle any unforeseen situations.
- How do you handle emergency situations with your clients?
In case of an emergency, our caregivers are trained to remain calm and follow the proper protocols to ensure your loved one’s safety. They will immediately contact emergency services if needed and notify the family and our office. While our caregivers are not authorized to provide medical treatment, they are trained in basic emergency response, such as staying with the client, providing reassurance, and ensuring help is on the way. Additionally, we always have a point of contact available for urgent matters to provide immediate assistance and coordination.
- Will I have the same caregiver every day, or do they change?
We strive for consistency in caregiving because we know how important it is for your loved one to build a trusting relationship. If your care plan requires shorter shifts (typically 9 hours or less), we’ll aim to assign the same caregiver each day. However, if your loved one requires extended or 24-hour care, we work with a small team of caregivers to ensure they remain well-rested and able to provide the best possible care. Even in those cases, we aim to keep the rotation as consistent as possible to maintain continuity and comfort for your loved one.
- Do your caregivers offer companionship and emotional support, too?
Absolutely. Our caregivers do more than just assist with daily tasks—they provide meaningful companionship and emotional support. Whether it’s engaging in conversations, participating in hobbies, or simply being a comforting presence, our caregivers are there to help your loved one feel less isolated and more connected. We understand that emotional well-being is a crucial part of overall health, and we are dedicated to supporting that aspect of care as well.
- How can I be sure my loved one will feel comfortable with a caregiver?
We take great care in matching your loved one with a caregiver who aligns with their personality, preferences, and needs. During the initial assessment, we gather information about your loved one’s likes, dislikes, routines, and any specific concerns. This allows us to select a caregiver who not only has the right skills but also complements your loved one’s temperament and lifestyle. Additionally, we encourage open communication—if there are any concerns, we’ll work with you to adjust the match until your loved one feels comfortable and supported.
- How do I get in touch if I have concerns or need to adjust the care plan?
We encourage open communication and are always available to discuss any concerns or adjustments needed to the care plan. You can reach out to us by phone, email, or through our online portal at any time. Whether it’s a small change or a more significant adjustment, we’ll work with you to ensure your loved one is receiving the most appropriate and effective care. Your feedback is important, and we’re here to make sure your needs are met.
- What’s the process to get started with in-home care?
Getting started with in-home care is simple. We begin with an initial consultation, either in person or over the phone, to assess your loved one’s needs, preferences, and health condition. After gathering that information, we’ll create a personalized care plan tailored to their specific requirements. Once everything is in place, we’ll assign a caregiver and begin care. We make sure the process is smooth and stress-free, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
- How do I know if in-home care is the right choice for my family?
In-home care can be an excellent option if your loved one needs assistance with daily activities but wants to remain in the comfort of their home. If you notice they’re struggling with tasks like dressing, grooming, mobility, or managing medications, in-home care could be a good fit. During our initial consultation, we’ll help assess whether in-home care is the best solution for your family’s needs, taking into account both the level of care required and your loved one’s desire for independence and comfort.
- Is in-home care covered by insurance or Medicare?
Coverage for in-home care depends on the specific situation and the type of services required. While Medicare typically doesn’t cover non-medical in-home care, certain long-term care insurance policies and other private insurance plans may offer coverage. We can help you navigate the insurance process and discuss payment options to make sure you understand what’s available. If you have questions about your specific policy or coverage, we’re happy to assist in reviewing those details with you.
- What sets your agency apart from other caregiving services?
What makes us stand out is our personalized, holistic approach to caregiving. We don’t just match your loved one with a caregiver; we take the time to understand their individual needs, preferences, and personality to create a care plan that truly fits. Our caregivers are trained not only to provide essential care but also to offer companionship, emotional support, and engage your loved one in meaningful activities. We also focus on building long-term relationships with both our clients and their families, ensuring consistency, reliability, and open communication every step of the way. Our goal is to create a caring environment that feels like an extension of your family, giving you peace of mind.
- How do you ensure the caregivers are trustworthy and reliable?
We take great care in selecting caregivers who are both skilled and compassionate. Each caregiver undergoes a thorough vetting process, including background checks, reference checks, and personal interviews. We look for individuals who not only meet professional standards but also share our values of kindness, integrity, and dedication. Once hired, caregivers receive ongoing training and are regularly monitored through client feedback and periodic evaluations. Additionally, we stay in close contact with families to ensure the level of care is consistently meeting or exceeding expectations, reinforcing trust and reliability in every aspect of our service.
Consistency, Dedication and Passion
Our agency is guided by a deep commitment to compassionate care, inspired by the vision and leadership of our owner, Ralph Sijl. With years of experience in the caregiving industry and a personal passion for improving the quality of life for seniors, Ralph has shaped Age Well Care around the principles of empathy, integrity, and personalized service. You can learn more about Ralph and our story by going to our Age Well Care About page.