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Care at Home

Home Care Planning Checklist for Families in Ontario

A simple checklist to describe needs, schedule, and expectations before arranging non-medical support at home.

Arranging support at home for a parent or loved one can feel overwhelming. Taking a few notes first helps families compare options, ask better questions, and choose support that truly fits.

1. Describe the daily routine

  • Which parts of the day are hardest (mornings, meals, evenings, overnight)?
  • Which tasks need hands-on help: bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility, meals?
  • Which household tasks are slipping: laundry, cleaning, groceries, errands?
  • What does the person want to keep doing independently?

2. Decide what kind of support fits

  • Personal support worker (PSW) help with daily-living routines
  • Companionship and social connection
  • Homemaking, meal preparation, and errands
  • Planned respite for family caregivers
  • Overnight or weekend coverage

3. Set the schedule

  • Which days and hours are needed, and is this recurring or short-term?
  • Is overnight or live-in support a possibility?
  • Who is the family contact for scheduling changes?

4. Check home safety

  • Clear walkways, good lighting, and secure rugs
  • Frequently used items within easy reach
  • A plan for who to call if something changes

5. Clarify scope with any provider

  • Which tasks are included, and which are not?
  • Is the service non-medical? Nursing and clinical care must come from licensed professionals.
  • How are staff selected, and how is communication handled?
  • How are costs, billing, and availability confirmed?

6. Involve the person receiving care

  • Share preferences about routines, language, culture, and privacy.
  • Respect consent and choice at every step.
  • Plan a review after the first few visits.

ApexHealth provides non-medical support. Clinical assessment, nursing, medical advice, and treatment should be arranged with appropriately licensed healthcare providers.