How to Prepare for a Home Care Assessment – What to Expect

 Starting the journey of in-home care can feel like a big step — but it all begins with a home care assessment. Knowing how to prepare for a home care assessment helps you feel more confident and ensures your loved one receives the right care from the start. This guide walks you through what to expect, how to get ready, and how to make the most of the assessment process.

 What Is a Home Care Assessment?

A home care assessment is a professional evaluation conducted by a home care agency to determine your loved one’s needs, abilities, and preferences. It’s usually the first step before creating a personalized care plan.

During the assessment, an agency representative — often a nurse or care coordinator — will:

• Review your loved one’s health history and medications

• Observe their mobility and daily functioning

• Discuss personal care needs, such as bathing, dressing, or meal prep

• Evaluate the safety of the home environment

• Talk about family involvement and caregiving expectations

  
  

The goal? To build a care plan that ensures safety, comfort, and independence.

 Questions to Ask During the Home Care Assessment

This is your opportunity to get clarity. Asking the right questions helps ensure the agency is a good fit and the care plan aligns with your loved one’s needs.

Consider asking:

• What services are included in the care plan?

• How often will the caregiver visit?

• Can we request the same caregiver consistently?

• What happens if there’s an emergency or we need to change schedules?

• Is your agency licensed, bonded, and insured?

• How do you match caregivers with clients?

Asking these questions during the home care assessment shows you’re proactive and helps build trust from the beginning.

 What Information You Should Provide to the Agency

To make the assessment accurate and useful, be ready to share detailed information. Here’s what to have on hand:

• A list of current medications and dosages

• Information on past hospital visits or health conditions

• Known allergies, dietary needs, or activity limitations

• Emergency contact information and primary doctor details

• A general overview of your loved one’s daily routine

• Details on any cognitive challenges, such as memory loss or confusion

  
  

Being transparent helps the care team create a plan that is both realistic and compassionate.

 How to Make an Informed Decision About Care Services

After the home care assessment, the agency will provide you with a proposed care plan. Take time to review it carefully.

Tips for making an informed decision:

• Compare agencies if needed — you’re not locked in after the first visit

• Ask for clarity on costs, schedules, and services

• Consider your loved one’s preferences and comfort level

• Make sure the care plan is flexible to adjust as needs change

• Read reviews or get referrals to learn about others’ experiences

Choosing a home care provider is an important decision — and having a well-conducted assessment is the first step to getting it right.

Preparing for a home care assessment doesn't need to be stressful. When you know what to expect, what to ask, and what to share, the process becomes a meaningful step toward getting your loved one the care they deserve.

📣 Call to Action

Schedule your free home care assessment with Harmony & Hope today and let us provide the care your loved one deserves. 📞 Contact us now to take the first step toward personalized, compassionate support.