Home Care Options

Frequently Asked Questions

Who and what experience have Home Care Options?

Home Care Options have a wealth of experience and infrastructure in this field as we have been working with and

caring for the elderly and infirm since 1989 operating two of Dublin’s top Private Nursing Homes. We offer more than

just companionship and housekeeping, in fact there is little we do not offer. Our staff are qualified and trained to the

highest of standards in individual fetac training courses such as lifting and handling, Alzheimer, dementia care and

much more. Our objective is to allow clients to live independently in the comfort of their own home while receiving the

qualified care they require with a first class service that is unmatched. Each client has their own specifically designed

care plan that is discussed at length before and during the course of our service. In order to minimise disruption to

clients and their families, we endeavour to place a carer whose personality and criteria match that of the client. We

understand the reliance and importance our clients place on support services, that is why we go the extra mile to

provide the best possible care and endeavour to say YES rather than NO to your individual requirements.

What will a carer do?

A carer supports independence by responding to and assisting the client with their personal care, light domestic

duties, shopping, meals and companionship. Convalescence support, respite care and dementia care is also provided.

If you have any additional or special requirements ie: Physiotherapy, Hairdressing, beauty Therapy etc, we are more

than happy to assist you.

How do I find a suitable carer?

At Home Care Options we endeavour in all instances to place a care giver with a client where personalities and

interests are similar. You will have the opportunity to meet and interview any care giver that we have selected as

appropriate to match your needs. We will also furnish you with a written profile of any suggested care giver for you to

look over. At Home Care Options we maintain consistency by having the same caregiver working with the same client

where possible. Usually a client would have a Primary and Secondary carer. This way if the Primary carer is sick or on

holidays, the Secondary carer would be familiar to the client. We feel this is the best way for a trusting relationship to

develop and you will always be informed of a change in carer.

Can I always speak to the Client Administrator who knows my requirements?

Yes. All of our clients have a dedicated personal Client Administrator whose name and contact details will be on top of

each care plan.

Can I change a carer? Can I choose a male or female carer?

Of course - you will always have the final decision in selecting a carer

How are carers selected and what training and experience do they have?

Our management team is responsible for the interviewing and selection of carers. We have a strict criteria and there

are many aspects in the selection process of care staff; including training qualifications, experience and reference

checks. All of our carers are extensively trained under our observation to ensure that individual tasks are carried out to

the highest of standards.

Can we claim tax relief in respect of the cost of homecare?

Yes you can, Tax relief can be obtained by our clients on payments made to Home Care Options at the top rate of tax.

You can receive tax relief of up to 41% of the cost of home care. Tax credit can also be obtained on a monthly basis

on payments made to us. E.g. Gross weekly cost of home care = €300 – 41% = €177 net cost. There were no

changes to this relief in the 2009 budget. Revenues form IT47 can be downloaded from www.revenue.ie or obtained at

your local health office. Home Care options provide full consultation in relation funding and Tax relief.

Who typically benefits from our home care?

Our clients are drawn from all age groups and vary from individuals returning home from hospital, including new

mothers, through to ongoing home care for elderly or disabled clients including Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Do you do background checks on your caregivers?

Yes. We complete extensive reference, criminal, and background checks where relevant.

What if I want to change my caregiver because I just don't feel we are a match?

No problem. Although we have an excellent record of finding the right person, there is a rare occasion where our

clients request we make a change. If for any reason you would prefer us to make a switch we will work hard to find the

right person for you based on your requests.

Will we have to sign a contract?

Yes, a contract of care is established with each client and must be signed by both client and Home Care Options.

Is there a minimum number of hours for service?

No, however, there is a minimum charge for our service which is equivalent to three hours.

How is the Billing handled?

Billing is done on a weekly basis. All invoices will illustrate the hours and dates of each visit during that week.

Do you have any information you can send me?

We have a detailed information package we can send to both potential clients and health professionals. Please