Five questions to ask before choosing a home care provider

CHOOSING a home care provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.

Whether you’re waiting for a Home Care Package, unhappy with your current provider, or planning ahead, the right choice can mean the difference between stress and peace of mind.

With the new Support at Home program starting in November, now is the perfect time to ask the right questions.

Here are five we recommend:

1. Do you have dedicated local offices and a large pool of caregivers to match my personal preferences and needs?

Local presence matters. A provider with offices in your community is more accessible and accountable. Ask how they match caregivers not just on availability, but on your personality, lifestyle, and care preferences.

2. Who makes up your care team?

True value comes from providers who invest in qualified staff and strong clinical governance. Ask if care teams are supported by registered nurses, and how caregivers are trained, supervised, and supported.

3. How flexible is your service if my needs change?

Life is unpredictable, and your care needs may evolve. Ask how easy it is to increase or reduce services, change schedules, or access different types of support as your situation changes.

4. What happens if I’m not happy with my care manager or caregivers?

How do you handle complaints and feedback?The best providers welcome feedback and treat complaints as opportunities to improve. Ask about their process, how quickly they respond, and what steps they take to ensure your voice is heard.

5. Can I hear from your clients?

Don’t just take their word for it. Read Google reviews, ask for testimonials, or speak with families already using their services. It’s the best way to judge if promises match reality.

At Dovida Geelong, Giovanni and Giselle lead a team recognised as a compassionate, caring, and knowledgeable aged care provider, fully registered with the Department of Health and Aged Care.

With three offices across the region, they’re proud to support families who are navigating aged care for the first time or looking for a provider who truly delivers.

Because the best provider isn’t the cheapest or the loudest advertiser — it’s the one who listens, adapts, and puts you at the centre of everything they do.

//SPONSORED CONTENT