Home Care Starter Guide:
How To Choose Your Home Care Agency
This quick checklist highlights the most important things to look for when selecting the right agency for your family.
✅ Identify Your Needs
– Personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility)
– Homemaking (meal prep, light housekeeping, errands)
– Companionship & emotional support
– Specialized needs (memory care, disability support, post-hospital recovery)
✅ Verify Licensing & Credentials
– Licensed by the state of Nevada (DPBH)
– Caregivers undergo background checks and training
– Agency is bonded and insured
✅ Understand Services Offered
– Non-medical PCS (Personal Care Services)
– ISO (Intermediary Service Organization) support for families
– Flexible scheduling (hourly, daily, overnight, live-in)
✅ Review Payment Options
– Private pay
– Medicaid
– VA benefits
– Other local/state programs
✅ Ask About Caregiver Support
– Caregiver supervision and support
– 24/7 contact availability
– Customized care plans, regularly reviewed
✅ Check Reviews & Testimonials
– Read family stories and feedback
– Ask for references
Frequently Asked Questions
At Home Sweet Home Care, we know families often have important questions when exploring home care options. To make things easier, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about our services, payments, and caregiving approach. If you still have questions, please give us a call 725-252-4777 or email cs@homesweethomecare.net and we will do our best to answer any further inquiries.
Q: What services are included in non-medical home care?
A: Non-medical home care includes assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, meal preparation, light housekeeping, mobility support, and companionship. At Home Sweet Home Care, our caregivers tailor services to each client’s unique needs.
Q: What’s the difference between PCS (Personal Care Services) and ISO (Intermediary Service Organization)?
A: PCS provides hands-on support like bathing, dressing, meals, and mobility. ISO allows families to hire and manage their own caregivers while we handle payroll, taxes, and compliance. This gives families more flexibility while ensuring caregivers are properly supported.
Q: How do I know if my loved one qualifies for Medicaid-funded care in Nevada?
A: Medicaid covers specific home care services through programs such as the HCBS Waiver. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and level of care needed. We can guide you through the process and connect you with Medicaid case managers to determine if your loved one qualifies.
Q: Can I choose my own caregiver, or do you assign one?
A: Families may request a specific caregiver, and in the ISO program, you can hire someone you already know. In PCS, we carefully match clients with trained caregivers based on needs, preferences, and personality fit.
Q: Do you accept VA benefits, Medicaid, and private pay?
A: Yes. We proudly accept Medicaid, VA benefits, and private pay. We’ll work with you to create a care plan that fits both your needs and financial resources.
Q: How much does home care cost in Nevada?
A: Costs depend on the number of care hours, services required, and funding source. Medicaid and VA benefits may cover most or all of the cost. Private pay rates vary, but we provide clear pricing during your initial consultation.
Q: What’s the difference between home care and home health?
A: Home care (non-medical) focuses on daily living assistance, while home health involves skilled nursing or therapy provided by medical professionals. Many families use both types of services together for complete support.
Q: How do I get started with Home Sweet Home Care?
A: It’s easy! Contact us by phone, email, or our website form. We’ll schedule a free consultation, create a personalized care plan, and match you with the right caregiver.
Q: Are your caregivers trained and background-checked?
A: Absolutely. All of our caregivers go through state-required training, competency checks, and background screenings. Many also receive specialized instruction in aging, disabilities, and dementia care.
Q: What happens if my caregiver is sick or can’t come?
A: We always have backup caregivers available. Our team ensures no gaps in service by providing substitute caregivers whenever needed, so your loved one’s care continues uninterrupted.
This quick guide breaks down how Veterans Affairs (VA) and Nevada Medicaid programs work, who qualifies, what they cover, and how to apply. So you and your loved ones can access the support you deserve.
VA Benefits – Eligibility & Application
Who’s Eligible: Veterans who meet service and discharge requirements, with additional criteria for disability, income, or age.
Covered Services: Home health aides, skilled nursing, adult day health care, respite care, and homemaker/home care assistance.
How to Apply:
Visit VA.gov or your local VA office.
Gather discharge papers (DD214), proof of income, and medical records.
Work with a VA social worker or benefits counselor to submit your application.
Medicaid – Nevada Long-Term Care Programs
Who’s Eligible: Nevada residents who meet income and asset limits. Special programs exist for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Covered Services: Personal care, assisted living, home health aide, skilled nursing, and in some cases, home modifications.
How to Apply:
Apply online through Nevada Medicaid.
Provide proof of income, residency, identity, and medical need.
Work with a Medicaid caseworker to set up services.
Community Resources for Nevada Families
We’ve gathered trusted organizations that support seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Use the links below to explore local programs, benefits, and helpful groups. Need help navigating it? We’re happy to guide you.
Senior Centers
Social activities, wellness programs, meals, and caregiver relief.
Clark & Washoe County directories.
Visit Resource: https://nevadaseniorservices.org
Veterans Affairs (VA) Offices
Regional offices and clinics; help with eligibility, claims, and benefits.
Visit Resource: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
Caregiver Support Groups
Peer support (online & in-person), workshops, and respite info.
Visit Resource: https://www.alz.org/nevada/helping_you/support_groups
Nevada Aging & Disability Services (ADSD)
Programs for seniors and people with disabilities; services and advocacy.
Visit Resource: https://adsd.nv.gov
Nevada Medicaid – Long-Term Services
Eligibility info, applications, and program overviews.
Visit Resource: https://dhcfp.nv.gov/LongTermServicesSupport/LTSSMain/
Transportation & Paratransit
Accessible rides for medical appointments and errands (RTC/Access).
Visit Resource: https://www.rtcwashoe.com/public-transportation/paratransit/
Legal & Financial Assistance
Elder law, advance directives, benefits counseling (Legal Aid/SHIPS).
Visit Resource: https://nevadalegalservices.org
Food & Wellness Programs
Meals on Wheels, senior nutrition, and wellness classes.
Visit Resource: https://mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
Other Local Resources
Nevada 211 (statewide directory of senior & disability services).
Visit Resource: https://www.nevada211.org
At Home Sweet Home Care, we believe choosing care should bring peace of mind. For a free consultation press the link below, call 725-252-4777, or email cs@homesweethomecare.net,