FAQ

Q: When are caregivers available?
A:  In general, caregivers are available when you need them:  24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Q: How do you screen your caregivers?
A:  Every caregiver completes a multi-step screening process that includes a national criminal background check, a social security number validity verification, a sex offender registry search, and a license check to confirm active CNA status and review complaints against the CNA license.

Q:  Are all the caregivers CNAs?
A: While a CNA license demonstrates a clear commitment to practical skills, client satisfaction often relies far more on a caregiver’s demeanor, social intelligence, attention to detail, and proactiveness. Many exceptional caregivers choose not to pursue formal certification due to the associated costs, yet they bring extraordinary depth to client care through rich life and professional backgrounds—whether as seasoned family caregivers who naturally excel at home care, individuals with advanced degrees driven by a passion for service, or industry veterans with decades of hands-on experience.

Q: Is there a minimum number of hours?
A:  Acorn does not have a minimum number of hours.  We have some clients that just have a one-hour visit. Tell us what you need, and we’ll do our best to make it work.  Keep in mind that many caregivers prefer longer care visits (8 to 12 hours).  Still, shorter visits are common.  We have clients with visits as short one-hour and as long as 24/7 care.

Q: Can you provide medical and home nursing services?
A:  The caregivers you get from Acorn can help you hands-on with things like bathing, toileting, dressing, grooming, eating, walking and transfers.  They also help with errands and companionship. Technically, these are all non-medical services.

Q:  What makes Acorn special?
A: Acorn has been in business for almost 15 years. We founded the company based on our experience of caring for Lorenzo’s mom, who died from Alzheimer’s. We can never guarantee that you will be happy with your caregiver, but we do guarantee that the two owners, Lorenzo and Mary Lynn, will always be responsive and do what they can to make things right. We are very proud of the fact that we have over 135 5-star reviews on Google, which is exceptionally high for our market. This does not happen by accident.

Q: Will I get the same caregiver?
A:  Yes.  With Acorn you get dedicated caregivers. Once the right fit is found for your needs, that relationship remains permanent unless you or the caregiver choose otherwise. Unlike agencies where clients see a different face every day, Acorn prioritizes continuity of care and client satisfaction by pairing you with a consistent, single caregiver or a dedicated small team.

Q: How do I set up service?
A:  Email or call so we may understand your needs.

Q: Do I need to sign a contract?
A:  You will be asked to sign a simple service agreement that describes our fees and other terms.  There is no long-term contract and you can terminate on short notice.

Q: How do I determine which services I need?
A:  We are happy to speak with you, at length and with no obligation, to discuss your needs and requirements.  Family members are welcome and are encouraged to participate in the process.  Decisions about care will always be decided by you, keeping you in control.  It is common that needs change; you might start with one level of care and quickly realize you need more, or less.  You are never locked in and can adjust as required.

Q: How do I pay for my services?
A:  Fees are private pay.  Standard health care insurance and Medicare do not normally cover the costs of in-home caregivers.

Q:  I have long term care insurance. Will you process the paperwork?
A:  Yes. Every invoice cycle, we prepare and submit detailed invoices and care logs directly to your long-term care insurance company on your behalf, so you can receive your reimbursement without the hassle of managing paperwork.

Contact us today to learn more and so we may understand your needs.