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davewatkins · Oct 6, 2008, 03:56 AM

Hello,

I wish to start a home care service for the elderly. The services will include most aspects i.e help washing, dressing, housework etc. My wife is experienced working in this industry but I need to know what qualifications, insurances are necessary to start the business, and what local authoritys need from me so I can register with them as a business.
There are probably many other topics I am unaware of, some guidance would be appreciated.

Many thanks, Dave

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tickle · Oct 6, 2008, 05:21 AM

Are you going to have homecare workers in your employ, aside from your spouse? Would like to know because it will change my advice.

davewatkins · Oct 6, 2008, 06:54 AM

Yes, my wife will start with clients and as it grows we will employ others,

Many thanks

Clough · Oct 7, 2008, 02:04 AM

Depending on where you plan to operate this kind of business, you might also need to be licensed as well as having some specific training. But, I'm sure that tickle will be able to advise you about those things.

tickle · Oct 7, 2008, 05:03 AM

Globalvillagehomecare.com will do some explaining, and I t hink it offers guidelines for sale, which you will need in order to find out what state licences you need to get started. I would also suggest good liability insurance as you will probably be driving seniors back and forth to doctor appontments. And document, document, document everything regarding in home care. Have a client record in the home so this is done on a daily basis and outlines what care you have promised to provide. Actually what I am suggesting is a Care Plan for each.

I work in the healthcare sector in Ontario, and as you may realize, not necessarily the same way as you, where you are. I belong to an organization mandated by the government and provide elderly care as a Personal Support Worker Cert. My training encompassed 200 hours of clinical care in a nursing home which gave me the base of knowledge.

I strongly suggest you start with clients at your skill level and demographics. Take courses in CPR, physical therapy, you will probably have to identify needs as you see them; my clients have already been assessed so this is not necessary. If you find the need to hire extra help then I suggest only Personal Support Workers as the are trained in the discliplines and strongly suggest anyone spend time in a nursing home learning how to handle elderly clients.

Is your wife a PSW or RN ? I suggest you have a doctor accessible for emergencies