Once you’ve decided your loved one needs in-home care, the next question is just as hard: which agency do you actually trust with them? With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s what to actually look at when comparing agencies — beyond just a polished website.
Check Their State Registration In Connecticut, agencies providing non-medical home care must register as a Homemaker-Companion Agency with the Department of Consumer Protection. Don’t be afraid to ask for the registration number directly — a legitimate agency will have it on hand. (Sunshine Days’ registration number, for reference, is HCA.0002597.)
Ask About Caregiver Screening and Training Every agency should be able to clearly explain how they screen and train caregivers before sending them into someone’s home. If an agency is vague or defensive about this question, take that as a signal.
Look for Flexible, Personalized Care Plans Care needs change over time — after a hospital stay, as mobility changes, or as memory issues progress. Ask whether care plans can be adjusted as circumstances change, or whether you’re locked into a fixed package.
Confirm They Actually Serve Your Town Not every agency that lists “Connecticut” on their website serves every town consistently. Ask directly whether they have caregivers regularly covering your specific area, not just the general region.
Ask How They Handle Communication Will you get updates after visits? Is there a direct line to someone if something comes up? Good communication between the agency and the family is often the difference between a good experience and a frustrating one.
Get Costs and Terms in Writing Before committing, make sure you understand exactly what’s included, what isn’t, and what the actual hourly or weekly cost looks like — in writing, not just a verbal estimate.
Start With a Consultation, Not a Commitment A reputable agency will offer a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your situation before asking you to sign anything. Use that conversation to ask every question on this list.
Sunshine Days In-Home Care is a registered Connecticut Homemaker-Companion Agency (HCA.0002597) serving Hamden and surrounding communities. If you’re comparing agencies, we’re happy to answer every question above directly — no pressure, just a real conversation about what your family needs.
