Choosing home care for yourself or a loved one can be a relief. Knowing help is on the way to remain safely at home brings peace of mind, but the start of home care can feel uncertain or even nerve-racking. You may understand what services a home care aide provides but still be unsure what the first visits will be like. Here’s how to make the most of the transition to home care and what to expect in the first week.
What the first home care visit is like
It’s normal to feel nervous ahead of the first home care visit. Most agencies understand this and take steps to make you feel more at ease on the first day.
Often, you’ll have had a phone call or brief in-person meeting before the caregiver’s first visit. In some cases, the caregiver may be accompanied by a supervisor or other agency representative when they first arrive. At the very least, the agency will have shared the caregiver’s name, experience, and why they believe this person is a good match for your needs.
The first visit is usually meant to serve as an introduction and a chance to get to know each other better. The caregiver may ask about your routine and help out a little that first day, or they may simply learn more about you. They will also take a tour of the home so they can familiarize themselves with the environment.
Clarifying the home care plan from the start
The first days are a time when your caregiver will clarify and fine-tune your care plan. They will review it with you and make changes to ensure you get the support you need.
They may talk to you about:
- Activities of daily living (ADLs): What support you need with tasks like bathing, grooming, dressing, etc.
- Meal preparation: What foods you like to eat and how meals are typically handled.
- Transportation: Whether you need rides for appointments, social activities, or errands.
- Companionship care: What activities you enjoy and how they can join and support you.
Building trust and getting comfortable
Although your caregiver will start performing the tasks in your care plan, much of the first week is also about getting comfortable with each other.
They will likely ask questions about your family, hobbies, and likes and dislikes. They may also share about themselves to build rapport and comfort.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during this time. Here are a few questions you can ask to get to know your home care aide better:
- What made you choose professional caregiving as a career?
- Have you had any other kinds of jobs before?
- What do you like to do outside of work?
- Do you have a partner or children?
- What can my family or I do to make your job easier?
You can also be open and honest about how you’re feeling about home care. If you’re nervous, disappointed at needing care, or uncomfortable about having another person around, let them know. They can share relevant personal stories or more about themselves to help ease your anxiety. Honest communication helps your caregiver better support you, both emotionally and physically.
Keeping family in the loop
The first week of home care is the perfect time to clarify how family members can stay involved in your care. Together with your caregiver, you can set up a communication schedule that might include:
- In-person check-ins: Family visits that overlap with caregiver hours.
- Phone updates: Regular calls between family members and the agency or caregiver.
- Digital tools: Apps or online platforms for tracking care updates and sharing information.
If loved ones live far away, you can also use a family communication tool to stay in touch with them about how home care services are going. Keeping family involved helps ensure everyone feels informed and at ease.
Normal adjustment vs. red flags
Feeling a little awkward or unsure is normal in the beginning. Caregivers may ask personal questions, like how difficult it is for you to bathe or use the bathroom, not to make you uncomfortable, but to ensure your care is appropriate. Although they are sensitive topics you aren’t used to talking about, it’s important to answer them honestly.
However, you should also listen to your gut. If something feels truly “off” about their questions, conversations, or actions, you could be right. Here are a few red flags to be aware of:
- Repeated tardiness or missed visits.
- Disorganization or lack of preparation (e.g., forgetting to bring necessary equipment or not reviewing your care plan).
- Poor communication or not listening to your concerns.
- A cold, dismissive, or unkind demeanor.
- Inappropriate physical contact or behavior.
- Making you feel unsafe in any way.
When to follow up with the home care agency
If you or your loved one experiences any of the red flags above or still feels uneasy after the first week, it’s a good idea to follow up with the agency. Sometimes, a caregiver simply may not be the right fit for your loved one. Speak to the agency about your reservations, and they can help you determine the best next steps. Agencies want you to feel safe, heard, and well cared for. Reaching out isn’t a complaint. It’s a step toward getting the best support possible.
You can also follow up with the agency at any time after the first week. Most are happy to answer your questions and solve challenges you’re facing to provide the best care they can.
Establishing a strong foundation for ongoing home care
The first week of home care is all about adjustment, for both you and your caregiver. By communicating openly, clarifying your needs, and staying engaged with your agency, you’ll set the stage for a strong, supportive relationship that helps you or your loved one thrive at home.
