The first step to finding the right kind of home care agency is determining what level of care is needed. There are two main categories of in-home care services: skilled care, which provides for medical needs, and custodial care. Custodial care may include environmental assistance—help with housekeeping, shopping, meal preparation and the like—or personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. Some agencies only provide one type of care; others may include both types. Home care organizations include home health agencies; hospices; homemaker and home care aide (HCA) agencies; staffing and private-duty agencies; and companies specializing in medical equipment and supplies, pharmaceuticals, and drug infusion therapy. Different types of home care companies may work together to provide an integrated system of services for a care recipient.

Once you have determined the type of home care services your loved one needs and have a list of appropriate agencies, it’s a good idea to interview and evaluate the agencies to compare them. Please use the following guide to help you choose the right one for your loved one.