Home Care FAQs
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In-Home Care FAQs
In-home personal care is non-medical support for individuals who need help with everyday activities due to aging, chronic conditions, recovery from illness, or disability. It’s not medical or nursing care—it’s real-life help, from real people, that makes daily living safer and more manageable.
A Personal Care Assistant cannot administer medicine, but they can always assist in reminding individuals to take their medications. In fact, medication reminders are one of our most requested services. We can also report any side effects and assist with pre-measured medication packages.
Yes. Every caregiver is an Elite Home Care employee. To help ensure the safety and well-being of our clients, we perform a criminal history background clearance and then cover each caregiver with general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Yes. We encourage your involvement in the decision-making process. Our screening and selection system lets you rest assured that we do our best to take the guesswork out of matching the right caregiver to you and your family. However, you must be satisfied. We always try to accommodate any requests you may have for a change in caregivers (as allowed by law).
A good candidate for home care is someone who wants to remain in the comfort of their own home. This may include seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, individuals recovering after surgery or illness, or those who need assistance with personal care, mobility, meal preparation, or companionship.
You don’t need pre-authorization, pre-qualification, certification or even a prescription for services for private pay home care. You choose the services you want, when to start those services, and how often those services are used. If you request assistance with billing a private insurance policy (such as long-term care insurance) for our services, we’re happy to help with the entire “benefits coordination” process. This includes providing any documentation you need for reimbursement by an insurance carrier.
No, home care services for personal care or companionship are not covered by HMO or Medicare. Some aspects of skilled nursing is covered by Medicare for a short duration.
If paying out of pocket, your services will begin within two days following the Registered Nurse’s initial home health assessment. We will carefully review the Nurse assessment and assign the best personal care aide to meet your needs. If you are depending on Long Term Care Insurance or Medicaid, it may take anywhere from 60-90 days to begin receiving services.
Yes, if you are eligible for home health care coverage through Medicaid Waiver Programs such as CCSP or SOURCE, our office will bill them directly. Please click here for more information about Medicaid Waiver Programs.
If you are paying cash or check, we will provide you with a “SERVICE AGREEMENT” that clearly identifies visits and hours spent by our home health care professionals. You pay only what is on your statement. We pay all taxes and insurance for our employees.
Every family we serve receives a personalized care plan tailored to their needs and budget. Several factors help determine the exact cost, including the number of care hours per week and the level of services provided (such as personal care, companionship, or specialized support). Our home care services are billed on an hourly basis, starting at $26/hr, which makes it simple to design a plan that works for your family. To learn exact rates, contact our office to schedule a free in-home consultation, where we’ll review your situation and outline a plan that fits your needs and budget.
- Private Pay- We accept Private Pay (out-of-pocket) for dementia care services.
- Long-Term Care Insurance – Elite Home Care accepts long-term care (LTC) insurance for home care in Atlanta. We work with providers on your behalf and guide families through the details of their policies, ensuring you understand exactly what services are included in your plan so you have peace of mind knowing what’s covered.
- Georgia Medicaid waiver options - Elite Home Care is a state-approved Medicaid Waiver provider (CCSP or SOURCE) that accepts Medicaid as payment for in-home care services for those who qualify. We invite you to visit our Medicaid Home Care page for more information.
If you’re unsure what type of care is covered under your plan, our office can help you understand your options and guide you through the next steps.
Start of care will begin within two days following the Registered Nurse’s initial home health assessment.
We believe in consumer-driven care: you determine the days and hours of service, the tasks to be performed and the caregiver will deliver the care. You can change the number or type of service we provide your loved one whenever it’s necessary. We understand the care situation can quickly change, so we’re as flexible as possible with your loved one’s care. Plus, you’re never bound to a long-term contract, so you can discontinue your relationship with Elite Home Care at your discretion.
Elite Home Care tracks our caregivers with simple timesheets filled out by each caregiver and signed by the client receiving care. We also use online Electronic Visit Verification to verify time and attendance. This creates a record of services within the home where care is provided.
No. You (or an authorized representative) are only invoiced after the completion of services. Usually, this happens weekly. You never have to pay caregivers directly. And you’ll never be asked to pay an additional fee to any employee.
We carefully screen and interview all caregivers. A thorough background check is performed and we verify all licensing credentials. All of our caregivers have been tested for TB, are CPR and First Aid trained and have proof of valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
Live-In Home Care provides around-the-clock support for individuals who need consistent care and supervision in the comfort of their own home. A dedicated caregiver stays in the home for 24-hour shifts (typically with rest breaks and sleeping arrangements), offering assistance with daily tasks, personal care, mobility, safety, companionship, and peace of mind—day and night.
Live-In Care typically includes overnight supervision with the understanding that the caregiver receives a reasonable amount of uninterrupted sleep (usually 6–8 hours). If your loved one requires continuous awake care throughout the night, we may recommend 24-Hour Care with rotating shifts instead.
Live-in caregivers require a private, clean space to sleep and store their belongings. This ensures they are well-rested and able to provide the highest level of care. We’ll help you evaluate your home setup to make sure it’s comfortable for both your loved one and the caregiver.
Respite Care is temporary in-home care that allows family caregivers to take a break—whether for a few hours, days, or even weeks—while knowing their loved one is safe, cared for, and in good hands. It’s a vital form of relief that supports your well-being as a caregiver.
We offer flexible options based on your needs—from a few hours while you run errands, to overnight care, weekend getaways, or extended vacations. Whether you need one-time help or recurring breaks, we’ll work with your schedule.
No, respite care can be provided for individuals of any age who need help with daily living activities due to illness, disability, surgery, or other circumstances. Our goal is to ensure comfort, dignity, and safety while giving caregivers peace of mind.
Companion Care
Companion care focuses on emotional support, conversation, and assistance with light household tasks that help maintain a safe, social, and independent lifestyle. In-home personal care includes hands-on help with activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility, and is better suited for individuals who need more physical assistance.
While our caregivers offer meaningful support, they are not licensed medical professionals. They cannot:
• Administer medications (including injections or prescription handling)
• Provide medical or skilled nursing care
• Perform wound care, catheter care, or similar procedures
• Handle heavy lifting or transfers without proper equipment or staffing
• Make medical decisions on behalf of your loved one
• Manage financial matters like paying bills or handling money
If your loved one needs medical or hands-on support, we can help you explore our Skilled Nursing services.
Companion care may be covered under certain Medicaid Waiver programs in Georgia, such as the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) or Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (EDWP). Our team can help determine eligibility and walk you through the application process. Private pay options are also available.
We begin with an in-home assessment conducted by a licensed RN. During this visit, we learn about your loved one’s needs, personality, preferences, and routine. We then match them with a caregiver who best fits their lifestyle, interests, and care needs—to ensure a comfortable and lasting connection.
Care plans are flexible. Whether your loved one needs companionship for a few hours a week or daily visits, we’ll work with your schedule and needs to create a plan that provides the right level of support.
Short answer is: it depends. Some caregivers are comfortable driving clients who are ambulatory.
Please note: Transportation services must be arranged in advance and are based on caregiver availability and safety guidelines.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Support FAQs
- Private Pay- We accept Private Pay (out-of-pocket) for dementia care services.
- Long-Term Care Insurance – Elite Home Care accepts long-term care (LTC) insurance for home care in Atlanta. We work with providers on your behalf and guide families through the details of their policies, ensuring you understand exactly what services are included in your plan so you have peace of mind knowing what’s covered.
- Georgia Medicaid waiver options - Elite Home Care is a state-approved Medicaid Waiver provider (CCSP or SOURCE) that accepts Medicaid as payment for in-home care services for those who qualify. We invite you to visit our Medicaid Home Care page for more information.
If you’re unsure what type of care is covered under your plan, our office can help you understand your options and guide you through the next steps.
Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are others, including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.
Yes. Our caregivers are trained to respond to a range of dementia-related behaviors with patience, redirection, and compassion. Safety is always our priority, and we work to create a calm, structured environment.
We consider personality, communication style, care needs, and preferences to find the best fit. Continuity matters—so we aim to minimize caregiver turnover whenever possible.
Absolutely. We offer overnight care, live-in options, and 24/7 support for individuals who need round-the-clock supervision or help during nighttime hours.
Yes. If you need a short break we offer respite care so you can rest and recharge while knowing your loved one is well cared for.
- Starting at $26/hr (based on level of care)
- Minimum: 4 hours per day, 3 days per week
- Weekday, overnight, weekend or live-in support available
What areas do you serve?
We serve families across the greater Atlanta area, including underserved communities in over eight metro counties. Contact us to confirm availability in your area.
You can reach out to us directly at 678-899-0363 to schedule a free consultation.
We’ll learn about the kind of support your loved one needs and develop a personalized care plan that feels right for your family.
Pre & Post Operative Care FAQs
Our caregivers strive for a thorough understanding of your loved one’s needs, helping them cope with stress and anxiety on the day of surgery/operation and ensuring a smooth transition from pre- to post–operation care. This may include but not limited to assisting with the right DME (Durable Medical Equipment), medication management, transportation and transfers on the day of, understanding dietary requirements and effective communication with family members.
Our care team can begin support as soon as your loved one returns home from the hospital or surgical center. In fact, many families schedule services in advance to ensure a smooth transition. We’re here and ready whenever you need us.
Yes. Our Registered Nurses (RNs) oversee wound care and ensure all post-surgical instructions are followed correctly. While our caregivers provide support with hygiene and comfort, our nurses handle more complex needs such as monitoring for signs of infection or managing dressing changes.
Yes. We can provide care from a few hours a day to around-the-clock support, depending on your loved one’s needs. Many families opt for 24/7 care in the first few days after surgery and scale back on care as the recovery progresses.
Our team maintains clear communication with your loved one’s medical providers and family to ensure everyone stays informed and care remains consistent and coordinated. Our lines of communication will be in conformance with HIPPA regulations and guidelines provided by the State Regulatory body.
Duration of post-operative care depends on the complexity of surgery/operation and the client’s health condition. Some individuals may only need a few days of assistance, while others benefit from several weeks of support. Our care plans are flexible and adapt to your loved one’s healing journey.
Yes, transportation support can be arranged as part of the care plan. We also help ensure your loved one gets to follow-up appointments safely and on time.
We strive to match our clients with the right caregiver and do our best to maintain the caregiver and the level of care consistent. We also give our clients the choice to change the caregiver if the fit is not right between the caregiver and the family or if there are scheduling changes that necessitates a new caregiver.
Medicaid Waiver
To qualify for the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) in Georgia, individuals must meet all of the following:
- Be enrolled in Medicaid
- Be 65 or older or functionally impaired
- Be certified by a physician as requiring a nursing home level of care
- Meet specific medical, functional, and financial criteria—the same as those required for nursing facility placement under Medicaid
This program is designed to support individuals who prefer to remain at home rather than enter a nursing facility but still need daily assistance to live safely and comfortably.
| Category | CCSP (Community Care Services Program) | SOURCE (Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Provides home- and community-based support to help individuals stay out of nursing homes. | Adds medical care coordination to the home- and community-based support. |
| Medical Need | For people needing a nursing home level of care but with less complex medical needs. | For people with more complex or chronic medical conditions needing ongoing medical oversight. |
| Financial Eligibility | Higher income limit (~$2,901/month) and less strict financial criteria. | Lower income limit (~$967/month) — generally for those who receive SSI and Medicaid. |
| Care Coordination | Case management only. | Case management plus a Primary Care Physician (PCP) coordinating the participant’s healthcare. |
| Typical Participants | Seniors or adults with functional impairments needing support like bathing, meals, or respite care. | Frail seniors or disabled adults with chronic health issues requiring integrated medical and support services. |
| Services Provided | Personal support, home-delivered meals, emergency response systems, respite care, and caregiver options. | Everything in CCSP plus ongoing medical oversight and care planning with a PCP. |
In many cases, Medicaid Home Care services are provided at no cost to eligible individuals. However, depending on your financial situation, you may be required to contribute a cost share as determined by the Georgia Medicaid program. Our team can help you understand what to expect and walk you through the process.
➡️ Guide to apply for the Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (formerly CCSP).
➡️ Guide to Apply for the SOURCE Waiver Program (Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment)