The hardest part of getting help is often the first call. Families tell us they worry about being pushed into something, or about a stranger judging how their parent lives. This guide explains exactly what happens at our free in-home assessment, so you know what to expect.
Before the visit
It starts with a phone call or a callback request. Tell us what is going on. There are no forms and no pressure: we listen first, then book a time that suits your parent and anyone in the family who wants to be there.
To get the most from the visit, have these handy:
- A list of current medications, or the pharmacy's printout.
- Any hospital discharge papers or care plans.
- The times of day that are hardest, and what a typical day looks like.
- Any public home care visits already scheduled.
During the visit
A care coordinator visits your parent at home. The visit is a conversation, not an inspection. The coordinator looks at:
- Daily routines. Mornings, meals, bathing, evenings, sleep.
- Health and care needs. What help is needed, and what stays with the doctor and health team.
- The home. Stairs, the bathroom, the path to the bathroom at night, anything that raises the risk of a fall.
- Personality and preferences. Language, culture, faith, interests, and the kind of person your parent would be comfortable with.
- What the family wants. Hours, budget, and what would make the biggest difference to you.
After the visit
You get a care plan and a clear, itemized quote, not a generic hourly rate. There is no obligation to go ahead.
If you decide to start, we hand-pick a caregiver from our vetted roster for skills, availability and, just as importantly, personality. Most families are matched within 24 hours of their assessment. For urgent situations, such as a hospital discharge, we prioritize same-day or next-day placement whenever possible.
Once care begins, your coordinator checks in regularly and adjusts the plan as needs change.
Questions families ask
Does the assessment cost anything?
No. The in-home assessment is free and there is no obligation.
Does my parent need to be there?
Yes, ideally. The visit is about them, and their preferences shape the plan. A family member is welcome too.
Is this the same as the Ontario Health atHome assessment?
No. Ontario Health atHome does its own assessment to decide publicly funded care. Ours plans private care, and it can fit around any public visits. See private care and Ontario Health atHome.
Sources
Moshe started RightKind Care after his own family needed extra help at home. He writes these guides so other families have the plain answers he wished he had. Read his story →
