Home Healthcare FAQs, Information & Answers

Why should I choose Neighbors NY?

Neighbors NY offers a unique approach to in-home support services for the elderly. We are a locally owned company, and our owner is very hands on and involved.  We try very hard to match caregivers to the individual needs and personalities of our clients. In addition, we utilize a very careful and thorough screening process that involves checking criminal background records, DMV reports, employment references, Social Security numbers, and more. Potential employees are also required to undergo an interview, skills assessment, and screening test. We’re also proud to say that we offer proprietary training programs.

How do we get started?

The process is very easy. Please call 518-743-0030 or email us at Info@NeighborsNY.com. Working closely with the client and family, Neighbors NY will assess your loved one’s needs and recommend a plan of care. This plan is tailored to meet the client’s specific needs.

Do I have to sign a long term contract?

Absolutely not. You are not locked into a long term contract; instead, we set up a tentative schedule that you can adjust as your needs change. Our services are customized to meet your needs; however, you choose the days and times and have the option to stop service at any time.

Do I have to pay any money up front?

If we are scheduling a substantial number of service hours per week, we may ask you for a security deposit equal to two weeks billing. This deposit will be applied to your last bill at the time you stop service. Any remaining deposit will be refunded. Billing is every two weeks, and we expect prompt payment for services rendered so that we can pay our caregivers.  

If I need to get in touch with someone at the office over the weekend or on nights or holidays regarding an issue, will someone be available to help me?

Yes, we have staff members on call during non-office hours to assist you with urgent service issues. If no one answers when you call, please leave a message, and the on-call person will call you back.  For routine messages, leave a message on our main office number.   For more urgent calls, you will be advised of the on-call number. 

Can I hire the caregivers directly that Neighbors NY sends to my home?

No. We ask all clients to sign a service agreement in which they agree not to hire our caregivers. We are not an employment agency, and we work extremely hard to recruit, train, and retain the best caregivers. If you were to hire our caregivers directly, you would incur all liability as outlined in the service agreement and would be responsible for ensuring that the caregiver's federal and state taxes and other employment taxes are paid properly and on time.

Mom needs help and cannot be left alone. Is an assisted living or nursing home facility the only option?

In-home care is an excellent alternative to institutional living. Many people move into institutions due to the inability to perform simple regular daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, etc. Unfortunately, some people decline very rapidly after moving out of their homes, and so the home care option should be considered as an alternative.  In some cases, a placement may be the best option.  When we assess your family member, we will let you know if we feel that they might benefit from living in a facility.  

Does my doctor have to prescribe home care?

It depends on the type of care you require.  Companion care and personal assistant services are not overseen by a physician, but other types of care do need to be.  If our RN determines that you need to have a personal care aide or home health aide come into your home to assist you with hands on activities such as bathing, dressing, and transferring, she will contact your physician and request order for those services.    

Daddy needs help, but is in denial and won’t let anyone in the house. Is there anything I can do to change his mind?  

You are not alone. Many older people resist having assistance in the beginning. One possible solution is to make it about you.  Ask your father to allow a caregiver to come in once a week so you won't worry about him.  Then you can gradually add hours as your father becomes accustomed to and enjoys the company of the caregiver.

What are the payment options for home care?

Self pay is the most common. In this case, the client and/or his family pay us directly for services.  

Long-Term Care Insurance is another option. Every policy is a little bit different, but we will be happy to assist you in checking on your coverage and filing your claims so that you will be reimbursed.

Workers Compensation Insurance will pay for home care if the need is created by an on-the-job injury.

The Veteran’s Administration sometimes provides benefits to veterans and surviving spouses, but the process can be difficult to navigate and can take time. If you think you or your loved one may be eligible, we can put you in touch with people who can provide guidance.

Medicaid pays for some home care for those who qualify.  We can offer some guidance and refer you to people who can help you if you need this financial assistance.

There are some grant programs that pay for limitied home care.  Give us a call for more information on all of these options.  

What trainings do your caregivers undergo?

Licensed caregivers go through state-mandated trainings in order to receive their licenses.  In addition, they are required to complete annual trainings in a variety of areas.  Companion caregivers receive training in infection prevention and control as well as in general conduct. Individual caregivers are also trained on-site at each client location. On-going trainings regarding other caregiving-related topics are conducted at staff meetings and through caregiver in-service training sessions.  

May I meet my caregiver before our first day together?

Yes. Neighbors can arrange for you and your caregiver to meet prior to beginning services if you would prefer that.

Will I always have the same caregiver?

Neighbors makes every effort to send the caregiver with whom you are familiar. If your regular caregiver is unable to work a scheduled shift due to illness or some other emergency, we will do everything possible to find a suitable substitute. Naturally, we will keep you informed of any changes.  You may choose to cancel service for that visit if your regular caregiver is unable to come as scheduled.  

What are the advantages of using a caregiver service such as yours over hiring someone from the newspaper or a referral service (private caregivers)?

All Neighbors caregivers are employees of our company, and the company handles all employment taxes. Our caregivers are also fully insured and bonded and are covered by Worker's Compensation. All caregivers go through an intensive screening process, have 24/7 access to supervision and receive personalized training at your home. If you do hire privately, it is important to use a payroll service to ensure that all federal, state, and Social Security taxes are being paid; otherwise, the government will come to you for payment of past due taxes and penalties – not the caregiver.  You may also be liable for injuries that are sustained in your home by a private caregiver. 

Why should I choose your service over another in my area?

Neighbors NY has earned an excellent reputation as a top-quality home care company. Our growth has been due primarily to word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients and their families. In addition, Neighbors NY is locally owned and operated by Nancy Talarski who lives in the local area. 

What areas do you serve?

Our office is located in Queensbury, but our coverage area extends into Warren, Washington, and northern Saratoga Counties. Please call us for specifics on your needs.

Are you a local or a national company?

Neighbors NY is locally owned and operated. We are not a franchise, but we are part of a national organization of similar businesses. Our affiliation with The Senior’s Choice provides us with support and helps us to stay current on new laws and state requirements as well as best practices.  

May I receive your services in other settings besides my home?

Yes. Neighbors NY provides services in many nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, and other settings.

Is Neighbors NY a Registry/Referral Service?

No. All of our caregivers are employees of Neighbors NY.  We handle all of the appropriate deductions.  

Are your employees insured and bonded?

Absolutely. We provide liability and theft insurance as well as workers compensation, state-mandated disabiity, and more. 

Will I be responsible for my caregiver's employment taxes?

No. Neighbors NY pays all employment taxes.

Will someone from your company come to my home to conduct an initial assessment?

Yes. Neighbors NY conducts an initial needs assessment in order to get to know you and see how you like things done in your home. Information regarding your health issues, the services you require and your emergency contacts will be obtained at this time.  In most cases, there is not charge for this visit.