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FAQs

For 25 years, families have come to us with their questions about care. We know that choosing care for a loved one is a significant decision, and it’s natural to have many questions along the way. To help you feel confident and informed, we’ve answered the most common questions about our services, costs, and caregivers below. If you have any other questions, please reach out to us. We are always here to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Setting Up Care

How quickly can Neighborly Home Care begin services?

In most cases, we can start care within 72 hours. If you know your loved one will need help soon, such as after a hospital stay, please let us know as early as possible. With advance notice, we can handle the paperwork, find the right caregiver, and have your care plan in place before your loved one comes home. 

Do you offer a home consultation prior to starting care?

A care manager will talk with you to answer your questions and learn about your family’s needs. We’ll then arrange a time to meet you and your loved one in person so we can get to know you and create a care plan tailored to your situation. 

Will there be a written plan of care outlining the caregiver’s duties?

Yes, we always create a written care plan for every client. Your care manager will talk with you to understand your loved one’s needs and preferences. Together, we’ll develop a detailed plan that outlines the caregiver’s duties. You, our staffing coordinator, and your caregivers will review the plan together to make sure everyone is on the same page. 

What is a service plan?

A Service Plan is a step-by-step guide for your loved one’s care at home. Your care manager will meet with you for an assessment, then create a plan tailored to your loved one’s needs, including personal care, nutrition, and daily routines. We update the plan regularly through visits and check-ins, so your loved one always receives the right support. We keep the Service Plan in your loved one’s home, so every caregiver has clear guidance at the start of each shift. If a caregiver notices any changes, they let the care manager know, and we update the plan as needed. This way, care always matches your loved one’s current needs. 

What is a service agreement?

You’ll sign a Service Agreement that clearly explains the care we’ll provide, your responsibilities, and ours. You only pay for the services you use, and you are never required to continue care if your needs change.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Home Care Services

Are transportation services available?

Yes, we can include transportation in your care plan. Our intake specialist will talk with you about your preferences, whether you’d like a caregiver with their own car or prefer to use your vehicle. We can help with rides to doctor’s appointments, shopping, or even a trip to the park, whatever helps your loved one stay active and connected. 

What is the difference between live-in care, 24/7 care, and hourly care?
  • With live-in care, one caregiver stays in your home for 24 hours at a time. They have their own sleeping space and take breaks, so they are available when needed but not working every minute. Live-in care is a good choice if your loved one needs support during the day and night, but does not need constant hands-on care.
  • 24/7 care means a team of caregivers works in shifts, so someone is always awake and ready to help at any hour. This is the best option if your loved one needs active supervision and hands-on support day and night. Care is billed hourly, and usually three caregivers rotate through each day.
  • Hourly care is a flexible option for families who need help at certain times of day, from just a few hours to a full day. Caregivers are only present during the scheduled hours, so you get support when you need it most. 
Can you provide care outside the senior’s home?

Yes, we can provide care wherever your loved one needs it. Our caregivers can offer companionship and safety monitoring during hospital stays or visit seniors in assisted living or independent living communities to provide the personal attention they deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Care

How often will I be billed?

Our billing process depends on the type of care you choose. We’ll explain your billing schedule and payment options up front, so you always know what to expect and can plan with confidence. 

Does Neighborly Home Care bill the long-term care insurance company directly? Do you assist with pre-authorization of services?

Because we are a licensed agency throughout Eastern Pennsylvania, we can bill your long-term care insurance company on your behalf and help you with the paperwork to start your benefits. 

Could I pay for these services with Medicare or Medicaid?

Some families may qualify for services through Medicaid Waiver Programs. Eligibility varies, so please contact us, and we’ll help you determine whether this option is available. 

What if I don’t have long-term care insurance or Medicaid?

If you don’t have long-term care insurance or Medicaid, you can use our private pay program. We’ll work with you to find a care plan that fits your needs and budget. Many families appreciate our reasonable rates and flexible scheduling, which allows you to choose only the hours of care you need. 

What other costs could be associated with your care?

There may be extra charges for care on holidays or for mileage if a caregiver uses their own car for transportation or errands. We will always explain any additional costs up front, so there are no surprises.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Caregivers

What are Neighborly Home Care’s hiring practices?

All of our caregivers are employees of Neighborly Home Care, not independent contractors. This means they are part of our team, trained and supported by us to provide the best care for your loved one and peace of mind for your family.

We carefully screen every caregiver before they join our team. We check their experience, references, licenses, background, and health requirements. Each caregiver also completes our skills assessment and orientation, so you can feel confident in the care your loved one receives.

Because our caregivers are employees, they are fully licensed and covered by our workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This gives you peace of mind, knowing your loved one is in safe hands. 

What type of training is provided?

Neighborly Home Care provides ongoing training for our caregivers that includes: all federal and state required in-service programs to ensure that caregiver licenses are up to date and in good standing, training programs provided by appropriate local and national associations, including (but not limited to)

  • Alzheimer’s
  • MS
  • Parkinson’s
  • ALS
  • Hospice

Neighborly Home Care also provides

  • Transfer training by RNs; ongoing monthly training (e.g., kosher meals, CPR, Aphasia, symptoms of UTI)
  • Regular comprehensive competency assessment by a registered nurse; oxygen safety in the home
  • Diabetic diet and nutrition counseling by a licensed dietician
  • Cultural training (as needed)
  • Depression recognition Hospitality training 
How will I know if the caregiver provides the correct hours at the scheduled times agreed upon when we signed up for service?

We use a phone-based system to track each caregiver’s hours and arrival times. Your caregiver will use your phone to clock in and out at the start and end of each shift, so we always have an accurate record. The only time a caregiver uses your phone is to clock in or in an emergency, so your privacy is respected. 

How do you supervise caregivers?

When care begins, we create a schedule and care plan designed for your loved one’s needs. We review this plan with each caregiver. Our care manager checks in regularly through visits and phone calls to make sure everything is going smoothly, and we update the plan as needed with your input. 

Do I have a choice of a caregiver, or will a caregiver be assigned to me?

We will introduce you to the caregiver we believe is the best match for your needs. If you feel the fit is not right, just let us know. We will arrange for you to meet other caregivers until you find the right person for your family.

Contact Neighborly Home Care for Home Care Services for Your Loved Ones

We hope these answers help you feel more confident as you make care decisions for your loved one. If you need support caring for a senior or disabled family member, we are here to help. Our caregivers are trained, compassionate, and dedicated to providing the highest quality care. Contact us today to learn how we can support your family.

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