Choosing a home companion is personal. This is someone who will spend time in your loved one's home, share their meals, and become part of their week. The right fit brings comfort and joy; the wrong one adds stress. Asking clear questions up front helps you choose with confidence.
About screening and trust
- How do you screen your caregivers? Do you run background checks and check references?
- Do you interview caregivers in person?
- What qualities do you look for beyond experience?
About matching and consistency
- How do you match a companion with my loved one's personality and interests?
- Will we have the same companion each visit?
- What happens if my loved one doesn't click with their companion?
- Who covers if our regular companion is sick or on vacation?
About services and boundaries
- Which tasks are included — meals, housekeeping, errands, transportation?
- What's the difference between your non-medical services and medical care?
- Can you provide medication reminders?
- Do you offer overnight or short-notice respite care?
About scheduling and communication
- Is there a minimum number of hours per visit or per week?
- How do I change or cancel a visit?
- How will you keep our family updated?
- Who do I call with a concern, and how quickly will I hear back?
About cost
- How does your pricing work, and are there any extra fees?
- Is there a contract or commitment?
- Can we start with a few hours and adjust over time?
Trust your instincts
Pay attention to how a provider makes you feel during the first conversation. Do they listen? Do they ask about your loved one as a person — their history, their hobbies, what makes them smile? The best companion care starts with genuine curiosity and respect.