So you have purchased a senior care franchise. Now what? There are a number of issues that can contribute to the success or failure of your business. Here is a brief overview of some of the top challenges.

Number one: Increasing Demand – This can be both a blessing and a curse. A recent AARP survey shows that nearly 90 percent of those over 55 plan to age in place in their homes (though roughly 20% will be forced to transfer into nursing homes or assisted living facilities). That still leaves seventy percent that will possibly, even probably, need some of home care. 10,000 individuals are turning 65 each day for the next 20 years! The 80+ population is projected to increase 79% by 2030. You have to prepare to handle that type of demand. Turning away business can lead to referral sources drying up.

Number two: Finding Qualified Staff – Increase demand means increased need to hire the right people to care for your clients. This crisis has only been made worse by the Coronavirus pandemic, as home health workers are facing increased risk and the extra burden of caring for the most vulnerable population. Add to that the ongoing struggle to keep staff and reduce turnover.

The third big challenge is how home care agencies are classified and perceived. Agencies in this category are providing care in the form of help with daily tasks, while the perception might be that they are offering more complex medical care. This means that the agency has to create realistic expectations of the level of care provided

Fourth on the list of challenges is regulation. While many in government are beginning to see home care as a good thing that improves outcomes and reduces the need for hospitalizations they can still creat problems by passing burdensome rules and laws. For example, agencies that take Medicaid or Medicare will soon have to use Electronic Visit Verification, a smartphone based check in app for caregivers. Keeping up with those rules can eat up a lot of time and resources.

Finally, the fifth challenge on this list is the pandemic itself and how it has changed the way care is delivered to seniors. Home care agencies are facing the challenge of obtaining the proper Person Protective Equipment (PPE), and providing the proper training to their caregivers. Seniors are the most vulnerable to serious outcomes from COVID-19.

One key to meeting all of these challenges and more is training and support. At Home Eldercare offers a comprehensive program of in person training combined ongoing virtual support to help you meet these head on.

For more information, reach out to us through our contact page, or call us at 844-358-4311.