Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do you select and hire your caregivers?
A: We realize that most seniors can be vulnerable and we take our responsibility of providing quality caregivers very seriously. First of all we screen the applications and interview only those candidates who look promising. Then in personal interviews we attempt to determine the presence of basic qualities needed i.e. care and compassion. Then previous work and personal references are checked. Finally, we conduct the criminal background check before we assign our caregivers to an assignment. Our agency is approved by the Massachusetts Criminal History Systems Board to perform Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check on the applicants.
Q: Are you able to provide service outside of private homes, e.g. in assisted care facilities and nursing homes?
A: Yes, some residents of assisted care facilities or nursing homes need additional or more personalized service. We have clients in both nursing homes and assisted care facilities. We coordinate with the facility management so that our services are in harmony with their services and policies.
Q: What happens if a caregiver is unable to report to work due to illness or other emergencies?
A: We have a pool of “floating staff” who can cover in such situations.
Q: Are the caregivers paid directly by your clients?
A: All our caregivers are our employees and they are paid by us and not by our clients. We pay all required Federal & State taxes so that you do not have to worry about tax liabilities or the cumbersome paperwork.
Q: Why should we hire Safe Harbor Eldercare over others?
A: We are a small locally owned company which can provide more personalized service. We are not a franchise or a chain; therefore, we are not restricted by the large corporate policy structure. We have the flexibility to work with our clients to accommodate their individual needs.
Q: What happens if we don't like the caregiver assigned by Safe Harbor?
A: Before we assign a caregiver to our clients, we do a needs evaluation as well as personality profile assessment. Then we carefully select a compatible caregiver. In the rare occasions that the personalities are not compatible, we promptly replace the caregiver. We feel that where as it is very important that our clients are satisfied, it is equally important that our caregivers are happy.
Q: Do we have to sign a contract for a minimum period?
A: We do not require a signed contract and our clients are not obligated for any minimum period. We feel that we exist for the needs and convenience of our clients.