Your Source for the Solutions You Need
“How do I know if home care is right for Mom?”
“What kinds of services does home care include?”
So many questions arise when you begin planning for elder care for a loved one. One of our most important services is listening to understand your needs and wishes.
Every situation is unique, but we have provided answers to common questions below as a starting point. We are always happy to speak with you about any additional questions you may have.
A: Many people want to remain at home as long as possible. At home, they are more comfortable, have more control over their schedules, and have a greater sense of choice and autonomy. Many people also experience a gradual need for more help at home rather than a sudden need for 24-hour care. Home care is a flexible and economical alternative to facility care. It allows you to start with as little as six hours a week and add more service when needed.
A: In-home care is ideal for any adult who needs assistance with normal daily activities.
A: We serve the I-5 corridor in Douglas County, OR, from approximately Yoncalla to Canyonville. Contact us to confirm that our services are available in your neighborhood.
A: If the person has developed physical or mental challenges that make it difficult to complete normal daily activities, home care is often the ideal solution. For example, seniors may benefit from companionship to alleviate loneliness, help with housework and meals, shopping and transportation to doctor appointments, assistance with showering and personal care, or more complex long-term care needs. Contact us to request a free in-home consultation and we can help you determine if home care is right for you.
A: Our services are as unique as the people we serve! We create a customized plan of care, which can include help with bathing/showering and other bathroom needs, grooming, transfers, mobility, meal preparation, light housekeeping and laundry, transportation, companionship, medication services, and assistance with prescribed therapies. Contact us for a free in-home consultation to learn which services are best for your situation.
A: There is no charge for people whose care is approved by Medicaid or the Veterans’ Administration. The cost for privately paid services varies according to individual needs. We are happy to provide a free in-home consultation to assess needs and provide you with cost for those services. Contact us any time and we’ll arrange a time that works best with your schedule.
A: In order to provide the most consistent care, we require a minimum of two 3.5 hour visits, weekly (7 hours total).
A: We accept a variety of payment methods, including Veterans’ Administration, Medicaid, long-term care (reimbursement policies), and private pay through check or credit card. We can also bill two entities (such as VA and private, or two family members for the same parent).
A: Neither Medicare nor health insurance policies currently pay for in-home care in Oregon. Both cover home health, which is a short-term medical service, and a different license. Our services can be paid for by Medicaid. To see if you or your loved one qualified for Medicaid, call 541-440-3580.
A: Yes, we are licensed as a comprehensive in-home care agency by the Oregon Health Authority, and our license number is 15-2326.
A: Yes, Advantage Home Care is insured and bonded and all services are covered.
A: At least two staff members meet the applicant during an in-house interview. If the applicant seems like a good match for our team, we do reference and background checks. We require at least two positive work references. We conduct Oregon, National, Office of Inspector General, and Sex Offender checks. We require proof of auto insurance and a driver’s license, and check DMV records at least annually.
A: We provide eight hours of paid, in-house training within 120 days of hire – the first four hours before a caregiver ever meets a client. All caregivers then receive RN-led training in medication services, bloodborne pathogens, and infection control, and first aid. Caregivers also complete annual continuing education, including cultural competency classes.
A: We provide a 24-hour answering service for existing clients and caregivers. You are welcome to call for information about starting services or applying for employment any time, and we will return the call during normal business hours.
A: We currently provide service to both independent and assisted living residents at Riverview Terrace, and hope to open an office in at least one other independent living community in the near future.
A: All of our caregivers are fully trained and equipped to step in if your primary caregiver is sick or taking some time off. We will offer the choice of a replacement or to reschedule service for another day.
If you have questions about elder care in Winchester or the surrounding areas that weren’t answered here, we have the information you need. Just give us a call any time at 541-440-0933.