Frequently Asked Questions
How do you select SOS caregivers?
Each caregiver is carefully screened and attends an orientation session. Each caregiver must undergo a rigorous screening process which includes a criminal background check, confirmation of valid driver’s licence and insurance as well as personal and professional reference checks. Our caregivers are also insured for our clients’ peace of mind.
Our caregivers are aged 50 years and over. They are carefully selected for their experience, reliability and most importantly, for their genuine willingness and desire to help families and seniors in their communities.
We take pride in our team and continuously strive to improve the quality of our services. We do so by offering seminars and workshops to our agents in areas that will improve services they provide to our clients.
How is my SOS caregiver selected for my needs?
Our caregivers have varying backgrounds and include personal support workers, retired teachers, retired nurses, retired business people, pastors, child care providers and many other professions. We draw on the right combination of skills and background to meet your service needs.
Will I be able to choose my SOS caregiver? Will I meet them before services start?
During the initial conversation and in-home visit, we will take note of your request for services and select the best SOS caregiver to meet your needs. A meeting will be arranged for an introduction between you and the SOS caregiver. As a client, you will endorse the individual selected before services commence.
Any conversations or in-home visits prior to the commencement of services is free of charge.
What if I am not happy with the SOS caregiver once they are hired?
We commit to follow-up with our clients within two weeks to ensure that you are completely satisfied with the services you are receiving. If you are not, we will arrange to have someone who can provide the services to your satisfaction.
Sometimes it can simply be that there is a difference of personalities involved. A simple adjustment in individuals can sometimes make a big difference. In addition to providing the services to your complete satisfaction, we aim to create a relationship where both the client and the caregiver enjoy working together. As a result, we find that many rewarding relationships are created.
Our caregivers have a wealth of experience in various fields and have a desire to use this experience in a positive way in their community. Whether it is helping families with child care needs or providing a helping hand to seniors, our caregivers have a desire to make a difference in their communities. What we aim to do is find the right match so that your time together is enjoyable.
Will I have the same SOS caregiver all the time?
We strive to provide continuity of service so that a strong bond is formed between our client and the SOS caregiver. On occasion, two SOS caregivers may be required to meet our client service needs. For instance, we have caregivers who assist the client in the home while another caregiver may fill the gardening needs outdoors.
What if the caregiver is sick or on vacation?
SOS has a team of caregivers that offer an array of services. If one individual is not available, we will ensure that your service is not interrupted when the SOS caregiver is not available. You will be contacted in advance to advise you that the caregiver is not available. We will advise the interim caregiver of your plan of care and follow-up with you to ensure that everything is done to your satisfaction.
At the time of hiring the initial SOS caregiver, you may have the opportunity to meet with several caregivers. If you are satisfied with both individuals, we can suggest that, where possible based on availability, one serve as your primary caregiver while the other serves as your back-up in case of absences. In this way, you will have the luxury of knowing ahead of time who your service providers will be.