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Frequently Asked Questions
In-home senior care’s FAQ’s
Learn more about senior in-home care’s most frequently asked questions
More information can found under ‘Services‘ and under ‘Blog Posts‘
Beacon Home Care is a true gem in the world of senior care. Their team brings professionalism, compassion, and a deep understanding of what families need during challenging transitions. AB, in particular, is a phenomenal asset—she’s incredibly well-connected, thoughtful, and truly advocates for seniors in a way that sets Beacon apart. If you’re looking for a home care agency that works collaboratively and puts people first, Beacon is one you can trust. – Dale (Google)
Carmina has been an exceptional provider. I’ve had very good service and enjoy her meal preparation and a good friend also. Marisel helps in scheduling people when we need back ups. And does very well at this part of her job. Thank Beacon Home Care for your service! Keep up the good work! – Lance (Google)
As someone who works in senior care, I’ve had great experiences partnering with Beacon Home Care. They’re responsive, compassionate, and easy to work with. AB has been especially fantastic—always professional, communicative, and truly caring. It’s clear she takes the time to understand each family’s needs. I never hesitate to refer to Beacon because I know clients will be in good hands. – Kayevon (Google)
As a caregiver with Beacon Home Care for 9 years and counting 😍 i can say i had mostly positive experienced, and i can confidently say they stand out for their commitment, great team. Lastly i would like to give also a huge shoutout and a five stars to Mariecar for all her assistance, patience, and willingness to help everytime i need one, and i truly appreciate it. Thank you! ❤️🙏 – Eva (Google)
We have had occasion in the last couple of weeks to reflect on Eda’s work, and want to let you know more specifically why we feel so thankful for her care of Mary. We found Eda to be trustworthy, reliable and truly focused on Mary’s care. We feel so fortunate that such a capable person, with such heart and positive approach, was by Mary’s side and provided the care she needed – and went the extra mile to make it as comfortable as possible in all respects. Best regards, Judy (letter)
Family Discussions with Beacon Home Care
We’ve compliled some of the most comprehensive Q&A’s regarding in-home care. Find comfort in knowing you aren’t alone and help is just a phone call away!
“My mom doesn’t want anyone coming into her house, but I’m worried about her living alone. How do you handle resistant elderly parents?”
This is a very common question and situation that most families struggle with regarding in-home care. Beacon Home Care has helped many families where the parent initially said “no” to any help or was resistant to help. Our approach is gentle and respectful. We start with a friendly visit where our care manager simply starts a discussion with daily routine and concerns – without any pressure. Once seniors meet our caring team and realize we’re there to help them stay independent in their own home, they become much more receptive to home care. We can start with just a few hours a week for light companionship and see how it goes.
“I live out of state and it’s so hard to find someone I can trust to care for my elderly parent. How do I know you’re a reliable home care provider when I can’t be there to supervise?”
We completely understand a long distance worry. It’s truly one of the hardest situations to be in. That’s why Beacon Home Care provides regular communication and updates. Our caregivers document each visit, and are able to send written reports or electronic reports through our “family portal”. Our staff is always available by phone when you have questions or concerns. Many of our clients are adult children who live far away, and they tell us they finally feel like they can sleep at night knowing their parent(s) are in good hands. We also encourage you to call us directly whenever you want to check in.
“I’m exhausted from trying to take care of my mom (dad) myself, but I feel guilty about bringing in outside help. Is this normal?”
What you’re feeling is absolutely normal. Almost every family caregiver we deal with goes through this exact struggle. The guilt is real, but so is your burnout, and neither is healthy for you or your parent. Beacon Home Care has worked with many families where the adult child was at their breaking point. By bringing in professional help, it actually improved their relationship with their parent(s) and loved ones. You’ll have energy to be a loving daughter/son again instead of being overwhelmed by all the daily care tasks. Your mother (father) needs you healthy and present more than they need you exhausted and resentful.
“My mother has dementia and gets agitated with strangers. Do your caregivers know how to handle Alzheimer’s patients who can be difficult?”
Beacon Home Care understands that agitation often comes from confusion and fear. We have caregivers specifically trained in dementia care and dementia experience. We’ve successfully cared for many clients with Alzheimer’s who were initially resistant or became upset with new people. Our approach is patient, calm, and consistent. We take time to learn your parent(s) routines, preferences, and what triggers their anxiety. Sometimes it takes a few visits for trust to build, but we’ve seen clients who were initially agitated become genuinely happy to see their caregiver arrive. We understand this is scary for families, but we have the experience to handle these challenging situations with compassion.
“I need someone who will actually show up reliably. I’ve heard horror stories about caregivers not coming when scheduled. How do I know I can count on you?”
Reliability is absolutely critical, and we understand concerns after hearing our share of those stories. Beacon Home Care has put backup systems in place specifically because we know life happens. Caregivers can get sick or have emergencies. But unlike other home care agencies that just leave you hanging, Beacon Home Care has protocols to ensure communication and coverage. If your regular caregiver can’t make it, we provide a replacement or personally call you with as much advance notice as possible. We also track attendance carefully and address reliability issues immediately with any caregiver who doesn’t meet our standards.
“My mom (dad) needs help but they are very particular about how things are done in their house. Will your caregivers adapt to his specific routines and preferences?”
Absolutely, Beacon Home Care believes your mom (dad) should be comfortable in their own home, which means respecting their routines and way of doing things. During our initial assessment, we spend time learning about any daily preferences, from how they prepare their coffee – to what time they prefer their meals. Our caregivers are trained to adapt to each client’s individual needs rather than imposing a “one-size-fits-all” approach. We want your parent(s) to feel like the caregiver fits into their life, not the other way around. Many of our clients tell us their caregiver seems to just “get” them and their preferences.
“I’m worried about the cost of home care. My mom (dad) is on a fixed income and I’m already stretched thin financially. How do we afford in-home care?”
We understand cost is a major concern for most families. You’re definitely not alone in this worry. We work with local non-profits and local resource agencies who may be able to help with respite and grant assistance. Beacon Home Care also works with families to create a care plan that fits their budget. Whether that’s starting with just a few hours a week, or finding ways to maximize the value of each visit, let’s work together! Our caregivers often help with multiple tasks during their time there; companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders and more. This way you get more value from each hour! We’re also happy to discuss flexible scheduling options that can help manage costs while still providing the essential care your mom’s (dad’s) needs.
“My mother has been lonely and depressed since my father passed away. She barely leaves the house. Can a caregiver help with companionship and get her more engaged?”
This breaks our hearts, and it’s such a common situation after a spouse passes away. Companionship is actually one of the most important services Beacon Home Care provides. Our caregivers are trained to engage clients in meaningful conversation, encourage activities they used to enjoy, and provide gentle motivation to stay connected with life. We’ve seen clients who were withdrawn and depressed gradually become more social and engaged when they have regular, caring interactions. Many clients tell us they actually look forward to their caregiver’s visits and light up when they see them arrive. It becomes a bright spot in their week!
“What happens if my mom (dad) doesn’t get along with the caregiver you send? We don’t want to be stuck in an uncomfortable situation.”
Great question! Personality fit is so important for a successful care relationship. We do our best to match caregivers with clients based on personalities and preferences. Sometimes the most perfect caregiver may not be a perfect fit for mom or dad. We get it. If it’s not working out, we absolutely will make a change with no questions asked and no penalty to you. We want your parent(s) to be genuinely comfortable with and happy to see their caregiver. Sometimes it takes trying different people to find the right match, and that’s completely normal. We’d rather take the time to find the right fit than have everyone feeling uncomfortable.
“My mother (father) is recovering from a fall and needs temporary help, but I don’t know how long he’ll need care. Do you require long-term commitments?”
Beacon Home Care does not require any long term commitments. We understand that needs change, especially during recovery periods. Many of our clients start with temporary care after a hospital discharge, or injury, and then adjust their care plan as their situation improves or changes. We can provide care for just a few days, weeks, months, or ongoing. We want the best situation that supports your parent’s recovery and your family’s needs. There’s no long-term contract requirement. We’re flexible about increasing or decreasing hours as his condition changes.