Choosing a home care provider is one of the most important decisions families make especially when it involves supporting a senior loved one. The right agency will not only help your loved one stay safe and independent at home, but also give the entire family peace of mind.

At Merbess Care, we believe that informed families make the best choices. Before committing to services, ask these crucial questions to ensure you're selecting a provider who prioritizes safety, dignity, and high-quality care.

1. What qualifications, standards, and approvals does your home care provider have?

   When choosing a home care agency, it’s important to understand what measures they take to ensure safety, professionalism, and high-quality service. Ask about their internal standards, training processes, oversight practices, and any recognized approvals or affiliations.

   
   

   Merbess Care upholds strong care standards, follows industry best practices, and is also a VA-approved provider, meaning we are authorized to support eligible veterans and their families through approved VA home care programs. This reflects our commitment to accountability, consistency, and compassionate support.

2. What background checks do you perform on your caregivers?

   Ask whether the agency performs:

   1. Criminal background checks

   2. Vulnerable sector screenings

   3. Reference checks

   4. Ongoing monitoring

   
   

   We take this seriously. Merbess Care’s caregivers undergo thorough multi-step screening to ensure only qualified, trustworthy professionals enter your loved one’s home.

   
   

3. Are your caregivers trained and insured?

   Caregivers should be trained in essential areas such as:

   1. Personal care

   2. Safety procedures

   3. Mobility assistance

   4. Dementia care

   5. Medication reminders

      
      

   At Merbess Care, all caregivers are fully trained and insured, which protects both your family and the caregiver.

   
   

4. What services do you offer?

   Make sure the agency offers the services your loved one needs now and as their needs change. This may include:

   1. Companionship

   2. Personal care

   3. Meal preparation

   4. Light housekeeping

   5. Medication reminders

   6. Dementia support

   7. Post-hospital care

   
   

   Merbess Care provides comprehensive home care services tailored to the unique needs of seniors across the GTA.

   
   

5. How are care plans created and updated?

   A professional agency should create a personalized care plan and update it regularly.

   
   

   At Merbess Care, each care plan begins with an in-depth assessment and is updated as your loved one’s health or preferences evolve.

6. How do you match caregivers with clients?

   A strong caregiver-client match improves comfort and consistency.

   
   

   Merbess Care uses a thoughtful matching process, considering personality, skills, cultural preferences, and schedule needs to ensure compatibility.

   
   

7. Will I have the same caregiver consistently?

   Consistency builds trust and reduces stress.

   
   

   We prioritize long-term caregiver placement, ensuring your loved one builds meaningful relationships with familiar faces.

   
   

8. How do you communicate with families?

   You should know:

   1. Who updates you

   2. How often

   3. How concerns are handled

      
      

   Merbess Care offers transparent, ongoing communication, ensuring families always feel informed and supported.

   
   

9. What is your process for scheduling and replacements?

   Caregivers need days off or may have emergencies.

   
   

   Merbess Care has a reliable backup system, ensuring continuity of care without disruption.

   
   

10. How do you ensure quality of care?

    Quality assurance should include:

    1. Supervisory visits

    2. Performance reviews

    3. Family feedback

    4. Ongoing caregiver training

       
       

    Merbess Care actively monitors care quality, conducts regular check-ins, and invests in training to maintain the highest standards.

    
    

11. What happens in case of emergencies?

    Ask about after-hours support and urgent care protocols.

    
    

    Merbess Care provides 24/7 on-call support, so you’re never left without guidance when it matters most.

    
    

12. Can I review pricing and billing policies upfront?

    Transparency is essential.

    
    

    Merbess Care offers clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, helping families plan care with confidence.

    
    

13. Do you offer flexible care options?

    Care needs change. A good agency should offer:

    1. Part-time care

    2. Full-time care

    3. Overnight support

    4. Respite care

    5. 24/7 live-in options

    
    

    Merbess Care provides flexible scheduling to accommodate families’ evolving needs.

    
    

14. What do other families say about your services?

    Reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth matter.

    
    

    Families consistently describe Merbess Care as compassionate, dependable, and responsive, qualities that set us apart in the home care industry.

    
    

15. What makes your home care agency different?

    This is where you truly learn what sets one provider apart from another.

    
    

    At Merbess Care, our commitment is simple: We support seniors with dignity, respect, and personalized care while giving families peace of mind. Our approach is rooted in compassion, communication, and a deep understanding of the challenges families face. We stand by your side when it matters most.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a home care provider is a major decision, but asking the right questions helps you make the best choice for your loved one’s wellbeing.

If you're looking for compassionate, reliable home care in the Greater Toronto Area, Merbess Care is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary care Assessment.

📞647-807-7154 📧 info@merbess.ca 🌐 www.merbess.ca