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Frequently Asked Questions

Your Top Questions Answered

At All Heart Home Care, we understand that choosing the right in-home care provider for your loved one is a significant decision—and you likely have a lot of questions. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive FAQ section to help you learn more about our senior care services, how we operate, what to expect, and how we can support your family. Whether you’re exploring home care for the first time or comparing agencies in San Diego, our goal is to provide clear, helpful answers that give you peace of mind and confidence in your care choices

About All Heart Home Care

All Heart Home Care is a multi-award-winning San Diego home care agency known for its compassionate caregiving and professional excellence​. We have been voted the “Best Non-Medical In-Home Care” in San Diego for multiple years by the Union-Tribune’s readers, reflecting our commitment to quality care​. Our agency is licensed by the state of California and all our caregivers are bonded and insured employees, giving you peace of mind that you’re working with a reputable, accountable team. We pride ourselves on local expertise – our management and caregiving team know San Diego’s communities and resources well, which helps us personalize our in-home senior care services to each client’s needs. Additionally, we offer unique benefits like a Care Journal (for seamless communication about your loved one’s care) and a Low-Rate Guarantee to ensure you receive premium care at a fair price​. In short, All Heart Home Care combines top-notch professional credentials with a heart-centered, personal approach to caregiving in San Diego.

All Heart Home Care proudly serves clients throughout San Diego County. We are a locally owned agency based in San Diego (La Mesa area) and provide in-home care across a wide range of communities. Our service area includes the city of San Diego and its neighborhoods (such as La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Downtown, Rancho Bernardo, etc.), as well as North County communities like Carlsbad, Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas, and Escondido, East County areas like La Mesa, El Cajon, and Santee, and South Bay areas like Chula Vista and Coronado. Essentially, if you’re in San Diego County, we can likely provide care at your location​. We also have knowledge of local resources in these areas, which helps us coordinate any additional services your loved one might need. If you’re unsure whether we cover your particular city or neighborhood, just give us a call – we’ll happily let you know and make arrangements to assist you as long as it’s within our service region.

In-home care (also called home care or senior home care) typically refers to non-medical support services that help older adults or disabled individuals live safely and comfortably at home. This includes assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation, and companionship. In-home care allows your loved one to age in place without giving up their independence​. In contrast, home health care usually means skilled nursing or therapy services provided by medical professionals (nurses, physical therapists, etc.) in the home​. Home health care is often short-term, prescribed by a doctor (for example, after surgery or hospitalization), and covered by Medicare, whereas non-medical home care is long-term assistance focused on personal needs and is typically privately paid. All Heart Home Care specializes in non-medical in-home senior care, but we frequently work alongside home health or hospice providers to make sure all of a client’s needs (both personal and medical) are met comprehensively.

Who We Help & When to Consider Care

Seniors and adults who need assistance to live safely at home can benefit from in-home care. Our services are ideal for older adults who want to age in place (stay in their own home) but require help with daily tasks due to age-related challenges, frailty, or conditions like arthritis. In-home care is also very helpful for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, as familiar surroundings can reduce confusion and agitation​while a trained caregiver assists with supervision and routine. Furthermore, anyone recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery at home may benefit from temporary care to help with daily needs during their recovery period​. Family caregivers who are feeling burnt out can use our services for respite, ensuring their loved one is cared for while they rest. In short, All Heart Home Care supports older adults, individuals with chronic conditions or cognitive impairments, and recently discharged patients, enabling them to remain at home rather than relocating to a nursing home or assisted living. If you or your loved one is struggling with everyday tasks, personal care, or safety at home, in-home caregiving could be the solution to maintain independence and improve quality of life.

Many families wait until a crisis to consider in-home care, but earlier intervention can significantly improve safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Signs that it may be time include frequent falls, missed medications, increased forgetfulness, poor hygiene, or social withdrawal. If your loved one struggles with cooking, cleaning, personal care, or getting to appointments, home care can offer meaningful support while allowing them to remain at home. Care is also beneficial after hospital stays or during recovery from surgery or illness.

Not at all. While most of our clients are seniors, in-home care is also ideal for adults recovering from surgery, managing chronic illness, or living with a disability. We also provide support to family caregivers who need a breakthrough our respite care services. Whether temporary or long-term, home care can be tailored to people of different ages who need extra help to live safely and comfortably.

Services & Care Provided

All Heart Home Care offers a wide range of in-home care services to support seniors and disabled adults. Our services include:

Personal Care Assistance: Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility/transferring. Caregivers provide respectful, hands-on assistance to ensure our clients’ comfort and safety at home.

Companionship and Homemaking: We help with meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping (laundry, dishes, tidying up), grocery shopping and errands, and transportation to appointments or outings​. Just as importantly, our caregivers provide friendly companionship, social engagement, and emotional support to prevent loneliness.

Medication Reminders: While our caregivers cannot administer injections or perform medical tasks, they do provide medication reminders and can assist with organizing pills (per doctor’s instructions) to ensure your loved one takes their medications on schedule.

24-Hour and Overnight Care: For clients who need round-the-clock supervision or assistance, we can arrange 24-hour home care with caregivers in shifts, as well as awake overnight care for safety and comfort.

Specialized Care: All Heart Home Care provides specialized non-medical care for clients with Alzheimer’s or dementia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery, and other chronic conditions. Our caregivers have specialized training to support these needs (e.g. memory care activities for dementia). We also offer post-surgical or post-hospitalization care to help clients recover at home, and hospice support care to assist those in end-of-life situations in collaboration with hospice agencies​.

Respite Care: We support family caregivers by offering respite care services. This means our professional caregivers can step in on a temporary or part-time basis to give family members a much-needed break while ensuring their loved one receives quality care.

In summary, we tailor our in-home senior care services to each individual. Whether your loved one needs just a few hours of help with errands and companionship or extensive personal care due to dementia or mobility issues, All Heart Home Care can develop a plan to meet those needs.

Yes – our services are available 24/7, 365 days a year to accommodate any schedule or care need. All Heart Home Care offers flexible scheduling from just a few hours per visit up to full 24-hour in-home care, including overnight shifts and weekend care​. We understand that care needs don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, so we have caregivers ready to assist at any time of day or night. Whether your family needs short daily visits, only occasional help, or continuous around-the-clock care, we can coordinate a schedule that works for you. We also maintain an on-call team for emergency or last-minute needs outside of normal business hours, ensuring that someone can be available if an urgent situation arises. In summary, care is available whenever you need it – our goal is to be there for you and your loved one at all times.

24-hour in-home care means that a caregiver is available around the clock to assist your loved one in shifts, ensuring continuous care both day and night. All Heart Home Care does offer 24/7 care – typically we arrange a team of caregivers who rotate through the day and night to cover all hours (for example, one caregiver for the daytime and another for overnight). This is often crucial for seniors who are fall risks, have late-night needs, or require continuous supervision (such as those with advanced dementia or serious medical conditions). With 24-hour care, someone is always awake and alert to help, providing peace of mind that your loved one is never alone.

All Heart Home Care can certainly provide round-the-clock support. Many families find 24/7 in-home care beneficial for clients with high care needs, as it can often prevent the need to move into a facility. Our San Diego caregivers work as a team to ensure seamless care transitions between shifts, and we closely monitor the schedule to avoid any gaps. This service provides maximum safety and support – for example, caregivers can assist with toileting or repositioning in the middle of the night, manage dementia-related sundowning behaviors, or simply be there to respond to any urgent situation at any hour. Services during a 24-hour period include all aspects of personal care, household help, meal prep, medication reminders, and companionship as described, just delivered continuously. If you believe your loved one needs 24-hour in-home care, we will create a personalized plan to make sure they are cared for every minute of the day.

For 24-hour home care, we typically use a small team of two to four caregivers who rotate shifts to cover mornings, evenings, and overnight. Commonly, two caregivers will split the day (e.g. one works a 12-hour daytime shift, and another works a 12-hour overnight shift). In some cases, a third and fourth caregiver will be involved to allow days off. We make sure this caregiver team is consistent – the same familiar faces will care for your loved one on an ongoing schedule. This consistency helps build trust and rapport. All Heart Home Care also carefully manages the hand-off between shifts: caregivers communicate any important information during shift changes so everyone is up to date. Rest assured, even though more than one caregiver will be involved in 24/7 care, your loved one will get to know each of them well, and all will follow the same care plan. Our staffing approach ensures seamless, uninterrupted care 24 hours a day.

Absolutely. All Heart Home Care’s services are flexible. Some families arrange 24-hour care temporarily, for example during a recovery from surgery or while a primary family caregiver is away on vacation. You do not have to commit to a long-term contract for 24/7 care. We accommodate both short-term and long-term needs. If you only need continuous care for a week or a month, we’re happy to provide that. Likewise, if you start with 24-hour care and later find you can scale back to daytime or overnight care only, we can adjust the schedule with reasonable notice. Our goal is to support your loved one for as long as needed – even if that need is just for a short period or uncertain duration. We require only a 72-hour notice to cancel ongoing care (and 24 hours notice to cancel a single shift) as per our policies, so you remain in control of your schedule. This flexibility means you can try 24-hour home care and see how it works for your family, without fear of being locked into something if your situation changes. Your comfort and satisfaction are our priorities.

Yes, we do. If your loved one doesn’t require a full 24-hour caregiver presence but does need assistance during the night, we can certainly provide an awake overnight caregiver. Overnight senior care is a popular option for families who can cover daytime needs but worry about their loved one’s safety after dark. In an overnight shift, our caregiver typically comes in the evening and stays through the night (for example, 8pm to 8am) to attend to any needs that arise. They remain awake and vigilant, ready to help with bathroom trips, disorientation, medication reminders, or any emergencies during the night. Come morning, they’ll assist with the morning routine before leaving. This service ensures your loved one is never alone at night, giving you peace of mind. Should you later find that more hours of care are needed during the day as well, we can smoothly transition from overnight-only to full 24-hour home care. We’re happy to customize the schedule to exactly what your family needs.

At All Heart Home Care, our caregivers are trained and authorized to provide non-medical in-home support. This includes assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, companionship, light housekeeping (up to 20% of the shift), medication reminders, and transportation to errands or appointments. Caregivers can also help clients maintain routines, provide social interaction, and encourage engagement in hobbies and mental stimulation activities. However, caregivers are not allowed to perform any medical services such as administering injections, wound care, catheter or colostomy care, glucose testing, or physical therapy. These tasks must be completed by a licensed medical professional, and we are happy to coordinate with outside providers to ensure your loved one receives comprehensive care while remaining in the comfort of their home.

Yes. Our caregivers are trained to assist with non-medical mobility support, including helping clients safely transfer from bed to chair, use walkers, or navigate their home. They can offer balance support, verbal cues, and assist with repositioning, as long as the client is able to participate in the movement in some way.

However, when a client cannot assist at all during a transfer—meaning they are effectively “dead weight”—this is considered a full body lift. In such cases, the client is unable to bear any weight or shift their body, and attempting a solo lift would pose a serious risk of injury. Similarly, mechanical lifts such as Hoyer lifts require two caregivers to be present to operate them safely.

To maintain a safe environment and prevent injury to both clients and caregivers, All Heart Home Care does not allow single caregivers to perform full body lifts or operate Hoyer lifts alone. For clients needing this level of support, our care plan will include two caregivers per shift, and we are pleased to offer a discounted hourly rate for the second caregiver to help offset the additional cost.

We are committed to protecting the safety and dignity of our clients while supporting families with practical, affordable solutions for higher levels of care.

Yes, caregivers can provide transportation and help with errands as part of our in-home care services. If you would like your caregiver to drive your loved one to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, social outings, or anywhere else, we can accommodate that. Our caregivers have valid driver’s licenses and we verify their driving records for safety. They also have their own insured vehicles or can drive the client’s vehicle if preferred. During the initial assessment, let us know that transportation assistance is needed so we can match you with a caregiver who has a reliable car and is comfortable driving.

Common scenarios include: taking clients to medical appointments and staying with them during the visit to help communicate with the doctor if needed, driving to pharmacies to pick up prescriptions, doing grocery shopping together (or for the client), or simply going for a drive or to a park for a change of scenery. Transportation is often a key part of helping seniors remain independent and engaged in the community. We ensure that caregivers who drive follow all safety protocols – they will assist your loved one from door to car, help with seatbelts and mobility devices, and drive attentively. If your loved one uses a wheelchair, we can arrange for a caregiver with an accessible vehicle or work out a solution (some families arrange rides through services and have our caregiver accompany the senior).

Essentially, think of our caregivers as accompanied transportation – it’s like having a trusted friend or family member drive your loved one, not only getting them from point A to B but also providing support throughout the outing. This can be invaluable if your loved one has mobility issues or cognitive impairment that would make going out alone unsafe. There is no extra charge for transportation beyond mileage reimbursement in some cases (we typically bill the standard IRS mileage rate if the caregiver’s vehicle is used for your errands). We will clarify those details with you.

In summary, yes, caregivers can drive and run errands. Whether it’s a quick trip to pick up groceries or a scheduled medical appointment across town, we’ll make sure your loved one gets there safely and has help every step of the way​. This is a big part of maintaining independence – our goal is to help clients continue their routine outside the home as much as they desire, without having to rely solely on family availability or expensive transport services.

CalAIM (California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal) is a state program that provides free personal care and homemaker services to qualifying Molina Medi-Cal and Kaiser Medi-Cal members. All Heart Home Care is proud to be a CalAIM provider offering these services to help relieve caregiver burnout or provide assistance while members are waiting for or already receiving IHSS services. Eligible clients can receive up to 336 hours of free personal care annually, and if more care is needed, we can help submit a request for additional hours. Services may include bathing, grooming, meal preparation, and other non-medical support. Contact our office to see if you or a loved one qualifies.

Caregiver Selection & Continuity

Yes, you will have the opportunity to meet and approve your caregiver in advance, and we strive to provide the same caregiver consistently to build a trusting relationship. After our initial assessment, we select a caregiver who seems like an excellent fit for your loved one’s needs and personality. We can arrange for that caregiver to come to a meet-and-greet visit (or attend the tail end of the assessment visit) so that you and your loved one can get to know them before regular shifts begin. This introduction is a good time to share any additional details about routines or preferences and to ensure everyone is comfortable. We want you to feel confident in the caregiver we’ve chosen – if for any reason you don’t feel it’s the right match, we will happily introduce a different caregiver. Your approval is important to us.

Once care starts, we do our best to schedule the same caregiver for each visit to ensure consistency. We understand how important it is for seniors to see a familiar face and not have to adjust to new people constantly. Having the same caregiver allows trust and friendship to develop, and the caregiver becomes more adept at anticipating your loved one’s needs over time. In some cases, if you have many hours of care (for example, 24-hour care or daily extended shifts), you will have a small team of consistent caregivers who rotate. Even in that case, we keep the team as limited and consistent as possible, typically introducing only two to three regular caregivers who cover a set schedule, rather than a parade of different staff. If your primary caregiver is sick or on vacation, we will notify you and arrange a qualified substitute, and we’ll try to use someone who has shadowed or been briefed on your loved one’s care (if time permits) so it’s a smoother transition​.

In summary, continuity of care is a top priority. Many clients form strong bonds with their caregivers, almost like extended family. We value that stability. Of course, if at any time you feel the fit isn’t right or you would prefer a different caregiver, just let us know – we will address the issue immediately by finding a better match because your satisfaction is paramount.

Answer: Yes, absolutely. We understand that each client has unique needs, and our caregiver matching process takes into account medical conditions, personality compatibility, and experience. Whether your loved one is facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s, dementia, mobility limitations, or requires end-of-life support, we have compassionate caregivers with the training and experience to provide thoughtful, skilled assistance. Just let us know during your care consultation, and we will do our best to match you with a caregiver who meets those specific qualifications.

Your satisfaction is our top priority. If for any reason you are not happy with your caregiver, please let us know immediately – we will address the situation and, if necessary, find a new caregiver who better meets your expectations. We understand that the caregiver-client relationship is very personal, and sometimes it might take a couple of tries to get the perfect match. There is no awkwardness in making such a request; our office staff handles it professionally. We will speak with you to understand any specific concerns or preferences (perhaps you’d prefer someone more talkative, or someone with a different schedule availability, etc.), and then we will suggest a replacement from our team. You’ll have the chance to meet the new caregiver to ensure you’re comfortable with the change.

All Heart Home Care has a roster of skilled caregivers, so we can usually accommodate changes quickly. During the transition, we will brief the new caregiver on your loved one’s care plan thoroughly to ensure continuity. We also use the care journal and notes from the prior caregiver to pass along routine details. Our goal is to make the switch as seamless as possible for your loved one.

Beyond replacing a caregiver, we also encourage open communication to resolve smaller issues. If you generally like your caregiver but have a concern (maybe you’d like them to do a task slightly differently, or focus more on one aspect of care), you can either communicate directly to the caregiver or inform our office, and we will coach the caregiver as needed. We do periodic check-ins with clients to ask if everything is going well.

Remember: you are in charge of your care. We are providing a service, and you have the right to be completely satisfied. We will not take offense – our caregivers also understand that sometimes a different personality or approach might be a better fit. We will always do what’s necessary to ensure you have a caregiver with whom you feel comfortable, safe, and happy. Many agencies say it, but we truly mean it: your needs come first and we will go out of our way to make sure you have the right caregiver and an excellent home care experience.

Yes, all of our caregivers are employees of All Heart Home Care, not independent contractors. This is important for a few reasons: it means we handle all hiring, training, payroll, taxes, and insurance obligations, so you don’t have to worry about any of that. Each caregiver is covered under our comprehensive liability insurance and bond​, as well as workers’ compensation insurance. In plain terms, this protects you and your loved one: if (hypothetically) a caregiver were injured on the job or caused accidental damage in the home, our agency’s insurance covers it – you would not be liable.

Being employees also means our caregivers are held to our agency’s policies and standards. They undergo thorough vetting and are supervised by us. We conduct performance evaluations and ongoing training as their employer. So, when you hire All Heart Home Care, you get a fully supported caregiver backed by an organization, rather than a solo worker. This model provides a higher level of accountability and professionalism.

Furthermore, All Heart Home Care itself is a licensed Home Care Organization in California, meeting all state requirements for operating a home care agency. Our caregivers are registered Home Care Aides with the state as well. We take care of all the credentialing and ensure every staff member is in compliance with state laws (including annual training and background check renewals). The bottom line: you can trust that anyone we send to your home has been thoroughly screened, properly insured, and is working under a reputable agency that stands behind their work.

We have a rigorous hiring process to ensure we only bring on compassionate, qualified caregivers. Our caregiver selection process involves multiple steps. First, we require applicants to have relevant experience (many are Certified Nursing Assistants or have been professional caregivers for years). We conduct a 3-phase interview process – often starting with a phone screening, then one or more in-person interviews to assess their skills and, just as importantly, their attitude and heart for caregiving​. We verify at least 2-3 references from previous employers or clients to confirm the caregiver’s reliability and quality of work​.

Next, every candidate must pass a comprehensive background check. This includes a Live Scan fingerprint check through the DOJ/FBI databases (required by California law for home care aides) and we also check their driving record if they will be transporting clients​. We ensure they have a clear record with no history of abuse, neglect, or serious crime. A drug screening may be conducted upon client request, and all caregivers must pass a TB test (tuberculosis clearance) before working with clients​.

We also assess each candidate’s practical caregiving skills via exams or scenario questions (for example, what would you do if a client with dementia refuses to bathe?). Each new hire completes an orientation and initial training covering topics like safety, infection control, and emergency procedures. We look specifically for caregivers who demonstrate traits like compassion, reliability, trustworthiness, and patience​. Not everyone is cut out for caregiving – we handpick those we’d trust with our own families.

Only those who meet our high standards across all these checkpoints are brought onto the All Heart team. By the time a caregiver is assigned to your loved one, they have been thoroughly vetted both for character and competence. It’s worth noting that we hire for attitude and train for skill: a caring heart is a must, and we can always provide additional training in specific skills. This careful screening translates into peace of mind for you, knowing that a qualified, carefully chosen professional is caring for your family member​.

Our caregivers are highly trained professionals. Many of our team members are Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) or Home Health Aides (HHAs) who have formal training in personal care and healthcare basics​. In addition to any certifications they hold upon hire, every caregiver on our staff goes through All Heart Home Care’s training program. This includes training in senior care best practices, safety protocols, infection control, and emergency response (some caregivers are certified in CPR and First Aid). We also provide specialized training modules, for example in dementia care techniques, communication skills, and transferring/mobility assistance to prevent falls.

One distinction of All Heart Home Care is that our caregivers caring for Alzheimer’s and Dementia clients are all certified by the Alzheimer’s Association essentiALZ program for dementia care​. This means they have received specific training and passed a certification exam on how to effectively and compassionately care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. So if your loved one has memory issues, you can be confident their caregiver understands the disease and how to manage related behaviors.

We believe in continuous education, so we offer ongoing training opportunities throughout the year. Caregivers receive updates on topics like Parkinson’s care, managing difficult behaviors, senior nutrition, hospice support, etc. Our goal is to have the most knowledgeable and skilled caregiving team in San Diego.

Beyond formal training, each caregiver is oriented to the specific client they will be serving. They review the care plan in detail and often shadow another experienced caregiver if it’s a complex care situation, to learn the routine. We also emphasize training in soft skills – things like listening, empathy, and respecting client dignity.

In summary, All Heart caregivers come with a strong foundation of training and certifications, and we continually build on that with specialized training programs and ongoing education to ensure they stay at the top of their field. When a caregiver arrives at your home, they are well-prepared to handle the tasks at hand with competence and compassion.

All Heart Home Care has a team-based approach, so your loved one’s care will not be interrupted if a caregiver is unavailable. If your regularly scheduled caregiver is ill, on vacation, or has an emergency, we will arrange a qualified substitute caregiver to fill in​. Our staffing coordinators keep a roster of backup caregivers who are oriented to each client’s needs (we keep detailed care notes so any fill-in caregiver can quickly get up to speed on the routine). Whenever possible, we introduce a backup caregiver in advance – for instance, if we know Jane will be on vacation next month, we might schedule her alternate, Sarah, to do a joint visit or two with Jane beforehand so that your loved one meets her and feels comfortable.

If a caregiver calls in sick last-minute, our office will notify you right away and let you know who the replacement will be and when they’ll arrive. We have on-call staff to handle these situations even outside of normal hours. You will never be left without care. Our agency employs enough caregivers precisely to cover these contingencies – reliability is a core part of our service.

The substitute caregiver will have access to the care plan and notes, and our care manager will brief them on any critical details about your loved one. They will provide the same level of care and professionalism you expect. Afterward, we’ll follow up to ensure you were satisfied with the interim caregiver.

Rest assured, you do not have to worry about scrambling for help if your usual caregiver is unavailable. All Heart Home Care’s team support each other, and we support you, to ensure continuity. We operate very much like a family – if one member needs a day off, another steps in to help. Our scheduling system is robust, and someone will always show up as scheduled to care for your loved one, even in the event of caregiver illness or personal leave​. If continuity is a concern, we can also discuss having a small rotating team from the start (e.g. two caregivers who both know your loved one) so that there’s always a familiar face available. Your loved one’s well-being is our responsibility at all times, not just when it’s convenient – we take that promise seriously.

At All Heart Home Care, caregivers are classified as either PAC (Personal Attendant Caregiver) or NPAC (Non-Personal Attendant Caregiver) based on the type of environment in which they are working. This classification affects not only their job setting but also the specific labor laws that apply to their work schedule.

A PAC caregiver provides personal, non-medical care within a private home setting—this includes a privately owned or rented house, condo, or apartment. These caregivers assist with tasks like bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, companionship, light housekeeping, and mobility support. Because PAC caregivers work in private residences, they fall under a different labor classification and are not legally required to take unpaid meal breaks, even if they work long shifts. However, we do encourage rest periods whenever appropriate and feasible.

An NPAC caregiver, on the other hand, works in a facility-based setting such as a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), Assisted Living Facility (ALF), Memory Care Facility, or hospital setting. Due to the structure and policies of these environments, NPAC caregivers are held to traditional employment classifications under California labor law. As such, they are entitled to a 30-minute unpaid meal break when working shifts over five hours. Both PAC and NPAC caregivers receive paid 10-minute rest breaks for every four hours worked.

We build all care schedules with these classifications in mind to ensure full compliance with state labor laws while continuing to provide consistent, attentive care for your loved one. If you’re unsure whether your loved one’s setting qualifies as a PAC or NPAC environment, our team will make that determination during your care assessment and explain how it may impact scheduling.

Specialized Home Care

Yes, we specialize in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. All Heart Home Care’s caregivers are trained in caring for clients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. In fact, our caregivers have completed certification through the Alzheimer’s Association’s essentiALZ training program, which provides the latest techniques in dementia care​. Dementia care at home focuses on maintaining a safe environment and ensuring the client’s needs are met with patience and understanding. Our caregivers can help with personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting), manage daily routines, provide gentle mental stimulation, and use memory cues to help orient and comfort the client. Being at home is often beneficial for those with dementia – familiar surroundings and routines can reduce confusion and agitation​. Caregivers also provide constant supervision for safety, preventing wandering or falls. They engage clients in memory-friendly activities (like looking through photo albums, simple crafts, music, or reminiscing conversations) to help slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life​. Additionally, our team offers much-needed respite and guidance for family members coping with a loved one’s dementia – we understand the challenges and we’re here to support you as well. All Heart Home Care’s dementia care program is compassionate and personalized, aiming to keep your loved one safe, calm, and as independent as possible at home despite memory loss.

Absolutely. All Heart Home Care provides dedicated post-surgical care (also called post-hospitalization or recovery care) to support clients after a surgery, illness, or hospital stay. Transitioning home from the hospital can be overwhelming, and our caregiving team works to ensure a smooth recovery at home​. Caregivers can assist with personal care tasks that might be difficult during recovery, such as bathing (if cleared by doctors), dressing, mobility (helping with walking or wheelchair transfer to avoid strain on surgical sites), and reminding clients to do prescribed exercises or therapy routines. We also help with household tasks during recuperation – things like preparing meals, light housekeeping, and picking up medications or groceries – so that the recovering person can focus on rest and healing. Our caregivers are familiar with following hospital discharge plans: we make sure clients adhere to medication schedules, attend follow-up doctor appointments (our caregiver can provide transportation and accompany them), and observe any signs of complication (reporting to the family or nurse if something seems off). In fact, we can even assist before a scheduled surgery if needed: helping the client get their home ready for a safe return (rearranging furniture for walker access, stocking the fridge, etc.), as mentioned in our approach to recovery home care​. By having a trained caregiver on hand, clients often recover faster and with less stress, and families have peace of mind that their loved one isn’t alone during this critical time. Preventing re-hospitalizations is a key goal – our attentive care can catch issues early and encourage compliance with doctor’s orders, contributing to a successful recovery.

Yes, we do. Respite care is a service we happily provide to support family caregivers who need temporary relief. We understand that caring for an aging parent or ill spouse can be exhausting, and caregiver burnout is a real concern. With All Heart Home Care’s respite services, a professional caregiver can step in for a few hours, days, or even weeks to take over your caregiving duties while you take care of yourself or other responsibilities. You can use respite care on a regular schedule (for example, hiring us every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon so you can run personal errands or rest) or on an as-needed basis (such as for a weekend getaway or if you become ill and cannot provide care yourself). Our respite care workers will ensure your loved one’s routine stays consistent in your absence – we follow your instructions closely regarding meals, medications, favorite activities, etc., so that your family member is comfortable and safe. This service not only helps the family caregiver avoid burnout, but it also provides the senior with social interaction and professional care. Whether you need a few hours off or an extended break, in-home respite care from All Heart Home Care can give you peace of mind while you recharge. Remember, taking care of yourself enables you to better take care of your loved one in the long run, and we’re here to make sure you can do both.

Absolutely. All Heart Home Care often works in tandem with hospice agencies to support clients who are in the end-of-life stage or dealing with a serious illness. While hospice nurses and aides focus on medical needs and pain management, our caregivers provide the additional non-medical assistance and comforting presence that hospice staff may not be able to stay for continuously​. We can help with things like keeping the patient comfortable (positioning, gentle personal care, oral care, keeping them clean and dry), preparing small meals or favorite foods if they are able to eat, and tending to the environment (playing soothing music, adjusting lighting, etc.). Our caregivers also take care of practical tasks that become hard for families during this time, such as light housework, doing laundry, caring for pets, or answering the door/phone, so that family members can focus on spending quality time with their loved one. Importantly, we provide emotional support and companionship to the client – simply sitting with them so they are not alone, reading to them, or holding their hand. We also support the family emotionally; our team is experienced with the hospice journey and offers a compassionate, listening ear. End-of-life can be an incredibly difficult time, and our hospice support home care aims to ease the burden on both the patient and their family. By having All Heart’s caregiver there, you ensure that your loved one has attentive care and dignity in their final days or hours, and that no one has to face this time without help. We coordinate closely with the hospice nurses and doctors to follow their instructions (for example, assisting with prescribed repositioning schedules or notifying them if symptoms change). Our goal is to help honor your loved one’s wishes to remain at home and make them as comfortable as possible.

Cost, Billing & Insurance

At All Heart Home Care, the cost of care is based on a few key factors, including the length of each shift and whether care is provided for a single individual or for a couple. We believe in keeping our pricing simple, fair, and transparent—with no hidden fees.

For clients needing 24-hour care, we offer a flat daily rate instead of charging hourly with overtime. This cost-effective pricing model helps families manage the cost of continuous care while ensuring their loved one receives consistent, around-the-clock support. Overtime charges are waived for these 24-hour daily care plans.

In general, our services are billed hourly, unless otherwise arranged. While rates may vary based on your schedule, All Heart Home Care’s typical hourly rates range from $37 to $45 per hour (subject to change). Your exact rate will depend on your shift duration and whether services are for one client or two.

If a caregiver uses their personal vehicle to transport your loved one or run errands, a standard IRS mileage reimbursement will apply. This fee only applies when a caregiver drives their own car for client-related tasks.

We also offer a free in-home care assessment to evaluate your loved one’s needs and provide a clear, personalized rate quote. During this visit, we’ll work with you to design a care plan that fits your budget and aligns with your goals.

We’re proud to offer a Low-Rate Guarantee to ensure our pricing remains competitive without sacrificing the quality of care. After your assessment, you’ll receive a detailed, no-obligation breakdown of costs, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

We accept private pay for home care services via personal checks, ACH bank transfers, and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express). Please note that a 3.5% processing fee applies to all credit card payments.

Clients are billed weekly, and a one-week refundable deposit is required at the start of care. This deposit is applied to any final balance due at the conclusion of service. Payment is due within 7 days of receiving your invoice.

For clients with long-term care insurance (LTC), we can assist with documentation and reimbursement. We also coordinate billing with VA Aid & Attendance benefits and other eligible third-party programs. During the intake process, we will clearly explain all payment terms and help determine the best billing setup for your situation.

Medicare (and regular private health insurance) does not cover non-medical home care services. This is a common misconception. Medicare will pay for limited in-home health services (like a nurse or physical therapist visits) after a hospitalization, but it does not pay for ongoing custodial care such as help with bathing, dressing, or cleaning​. In other words, Medicare does not cover in-home caregiving or companion care – families must pay for that privately. Standard health insurance plans (like employer-provided insurance or an ACA plan) also generally do not cover long-term in-home care; they might cover short-term skilled nursing or rehab services, but not ongoing help with daily living. Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) has very limited coverage for in-home care and typically only for those who have extremely low income and meet strict criteria​. (California’s Medi-Cal does have programs like In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) for those who qualify, but if you are using a private agency like All Heart Home Care, our services would be private pay).

However, there are other insurance-like resources that can help, such as long-term care insurance or the VA benefit for veterans (more on those in the next question). It’s always a good idea to review your loved one’s insurance policies: if they have a Long-Term Care (LTC) insurance policy, that is specifically designed to reimburse for home care services. Also, Veterans Affairs benefits (Aid & Attendance) can subsidize home care for eligible veterans and surviving spouses​. But Medicare itself, and typical health insurance, unfortunately, will not pay for a caregiver to assist with routine daily activities or companionship.

In summary, families should be prepared that home care is usually an out-of-pocket expense. Our team can help guide you on what options might offset costs (LTC policies, VA pension, etc.), but it’s important to know that Medicare does not pay for non-medical home care​. We will assist you in understanding all payment options so you can make the best financial plan for your situation.

Yes, many clients use Veterans benefits or long-term care insurance to help cover home care costs if they qualify. If your loved one is a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran, they may be eligible for the VA’s Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit, which provides funds specifically for in-home care or assisted living. This VA benefit is needs-based (there are eligibility criteria regarding income, assets, and level of care required), but for those who qualify it can significantly defray the cost of care​. All Heart Home Care is very familiar with the VA Aid & Attendance program – we can help you understand the application process.

If your loved one has a Long-Term Care insurance policy, that policy does cover non-medical home care in most cases. Long-term care insurance typically reimburses for a caregiver or home care agency up to certain limits, once the policy’s requirements are met (for example, the policyholder needing help with 2 or more ADLs). All Heart Home Care will work with you to accept long-term care insurance – we can usually bill the insurance company directly or assist you in filing claims, so you get reimbursed according to your policy​. We have staff experienced in handling the paperwork and assignment of benefits, making the process easier for you​.

Aside from VA and LTC insurance, there are a few other ways to finance home care. Some families utilize reverse mortgages, life insurance conversions, or family contribution pools, but those are individual financial decisions beyond our scope here. Our focus is to help you leverage any insurance benefits you already have.

In summary, while Medicare won’t pay for our services, VA benefits and long-term care insurance can be used to cover home care. We strongly encourage you to check if your loved one has served in the military or has an LTC policy. If so, let us know and we will assist in coordinating the payment through those channels. Our goal is to make home care as affordable as possible by utilizing all available resources for our clients​.

Yes, we do! At All Heart Home Care, we’re proud to offer exclusive promotional discounts for new clients as a way to welcome you and show our appreciation for choosing us to provide care for your loved one.

These limited-time discounts are available to new clients who receive daily home care services for 30 consecutive days:

  • 24-Hour Care – Get $2,500 off after your first 30 days of continuous service
  • 12-Hour Daily Shifts – Receive $1,000 off after 30 days of care
  • 8-Hour Daily Shifts – Enjoy $750 off once you’ve reached 30 consecutive days

To qualify, care must be scheduled every day for 30 days without interruption. These offers are only available to new clients and cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts.

It’s our way of saying thank you for trusting us as your home care provider—and helping make high-quality care more affordable as you get started.

Starting Services & Scheduling

Getting started is simple and quick. The first step is to reach out to us via phone or our website contact form or schedule a consultation with us. When you call our office, our friendly staff will gather some initial information and then schedule a free in-home care consultation at a time convenient for you. During this consultation (which can be at your loved one’s home or wherever they currently reside), a client relations manager from All Heart Home Care will meet with you and your family​. We will perform a thorough assessment of your loved one’s needs, routines, and preferences. This includes learning about their health conditions, what daily activities they need help with, their mobility level, dietary needs, personality and hobbies, and any special concerns you have. We’ll also answer all your questions about our services, caregivers, and the care process.

After the assessment, we will develop a personalized care plan and schedule that works for you​. If you decide to proceed, we then hand-pick a caregiver (or caregivers) from our team who best match your loved one’s needs and personality. We take pride in our matching process – for example, if your father loves gardening, we might select a caregiver who shares that interest, so they have common ground. Once we identify a prospective caregiver, we typically arrange an introductory meeting for you to meet them. If you approve the match, services can begin as early as the next day (or whenever you’re ready). We handle all the logistics such as caregiver briefing on the care plan, scheduling, and any paperwork.

In summary, just give us a call to start. We’ll guide you step by step. From the initial phone consultation to the in-person assessment and setting up care, our goal is to make the process smooth and fast. Often we can complete the assessment and start care within a day or two if needed. There is no long paperwork or complicated process for you – we do the heavy lifting so you can get help for your loved one as quickly as possible.

Services can start very quickly – often within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the circumstances. In urgent cases, we can sometimes even begin care on the same day as your inquiry​. During your initial call, please let us know if you have an urgent need (for example, your loved one is being discharged from a hospital tomorrow and needs a caregiver, or a family caregiver must leave town suddenly). We have a roster of caregivers and can expedite the assessment and placement process in emergencies.

Typically, the sequence is: contact us, have the assessment/consultation (can be done within a few hours if needed), and then we will assign a suitable caregiver who can start as soon as you need. We’ve started care for clients in less than 48 hours when time was of the essence​. Of course, if your need isn’t immediate, we can start on whatever date you prefer – some families plan weeks in advance for a caregiver to start on a specific day. But rest assured, if you call us with a crisis situation, we will do everything we can to get a qualified caregiver to you as quickly as possible.

All Heart Home Care has caregivers available 24/7, so even if you call on a weekend or after hours, our on-call client relations manager can initiate the process to get help to you. We understand that care needs can arise unexpectedly, and a swift response is critical. Our ability to start services promptly is one reason families trust us – we won’t leave you scrambling. In short, we can often have a caregiver at your door within one to two days (sometimes even sooner) of your request, once the care plan is agreed upon.

No – All Heart Home Care does not require a minimum number of hours per visit. We believe in providing flexible home care options that accommodate your family’s unique needs and schedule. Whether you need assistance for a short visit or full-day support, we can customize a care plan to fit your lifestyle and budget. Our goal is to make quality care as accessible and convenient as possible.

Yes. In addition to caring for clients in their private homes, we can also provide supplemental care in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, assisted living communities, or nursing homes. Families sometimes hire our caregivers to sit with or care for a loved one in the hospital or rehab facility, especially overnight, to ensure they have one-on-one attention that the facility staff may not be able to provide continuously. We also offer care in assisted living or nursing facilities for residents who might need extra companionship or personal care beyond what the facility offers​. For example, if your loved one is in an assisted living community but you feel they would benefit from dedicated one-on-one help (for mobility, outings, cognitive activities, etc.), our caregiver can come on a scheduled basis to augment the facility’s care. Our goal is to keep our clients safe and comfortable, wherever they reside. We will coordinate with the facility’s staff to ensure our involvement adheres to their guidelines and complements the existing care plan. This way, your loved one gets the best of both worlds – the resources of a facility and the personalized attention of a private caregiver.

Safety, Oversight & Family Communication

All Heart Home Care maintains a high standard of quality through careful supervision, communication, and continuous monitoring. First, our client relations managers create a detailed, personalized plan of care for each client and ensure that every caregiver assigned is thoroughly briefed on that plan. We conduct regular check-ins and home visits to evaluate the caregiver’s performance and the client’s satisfaction. During these supervisory visits or calls, we assess the client’s condition, update the care plan as needed, and get feedback from the client and family about how things are going.

One of our unique tools for quality assurance and communication is our Care Journal​. This is essentially a log or diary maintained for each client (often it’s an online platform or a physical notebook left in the home) where caregivers record the care provided each visit – activities done, the client’s mood, what they ate, any notable observations, etc. Family members (near or far) can review this Care Journal to stay updated on their loved one’s day-to-day status. It creates transparency; you’ll know if Mom ate breakfast or if Dad went on a walk today, for example. The Care Journal also allows our staff to monitor patterns in the client’s condition and intervene if something seems amiss.

For family members who live far away or can’t be present, we offer additional communication: we can schedule regular update calls or emails (weekly, biweekly, whatever frequency you prefer) to discuss your loved one’s progress. If there are any changes in condition or incidents (like a mild fall or a health issue), we notify the family immediately and document it. We also remain in contact with healthcare providers as needed (with permission) – for instance, if a home health nurse or doctor is also seeing the client, we’ll coordinate with them to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Our agency has a 24/7 on-call line, so you can reach us anytime with concerns or questions. If something arises after hours, a manager can be contacted to solve issues promptly. We also encourage families to provide feedback; after the first week of care, we often check in to ask how it’s going. Throughout service, you can call the office at any time to discuss the care or any adjustments needed.

In summary, we ensure quality by hiring and training excellent caregivers, supervising them routinely, and maintaining open lines of communication with you. With tools like the care journal and regular care manager oversight, we keep a close eye on the care being delivered. And by keeping family members informed and involved (to whatever degree you wish), we build a partnership in care. You’ll never be “in the dark” about your loved one’s care – we keep you informed every step of the way, and by doing so, we ensure that the care is meeting your expectations and our high standards.

During each visit, your All Heart caregiver will follow a personalized care plan tailored to your loved one’s needs and preferences, so the exact activities will vary per client. However, in general you can expect that the caregiver will assist with all agreed-upon daily tasks and provide warm companionship throughout their time with your loved one. At the start of the shift, the caregiver might chat with your loved one to see how they’re feeling and review what needs to be done that day.

Typical activities include: helping the client get ready for the day, which could involve morning personal care (bathing or sponge bath, dressing, grooming like hair styling or shaving, and oral hygiene). Caregivers are trained to perform these tasks respectfully, maintaining the client’s dignity and comfort. They’ll prepare meals and snacks, taking into account any dietary restrictions or favorite foods. Often, the caregiver and client will eat together, providing a nice social mealtime.

Throughout the day, the caregiver will do light housekeeping to keep the environment clean and safe – washing dishes after meals, doing laundry, changing bed linens, taking out trash, and generally tidying up the areas the client uses. They also will remind or assist with medications as needed (for example, “It’s 2 PM, time to take your blood pressure pill,” and then noting that it was taken). If the care plan includes exercises or therapy homework (perhaps some light stretches or doctor-advised activities), the caregiver can help guide those. They’ll also make sure the client stays hydrated and uses the restroom regularly (providing continence care if that’s part of the plan).

Companionship and engagement are a big part of each visit. Our caregivers aren’t just task-doers; they genuinely aim to brighten the client’s day. They might engage your loved one in conversation, reminisce about old memories, play a favorite board game or do a puzzle together, take a walk outside if the client is able, or maybe listen to music or watch a classic movie with them. We match caregivers with clients with shared interests, so if your dad loves gardening, the caregiver might spend time with him watering plants or looking through seed catalogs. If your mom enjoys reading, the caregiver can read aloud to her. This kind of social interaction and mental stimulation is crucial for emotional well-being​.

Caregivers are also continuously monitoring safety. They will assist with mobility, such as helping your loved one walk with a cane or walker, or transferring from bed to chair, to prevent falls. They’ll keep an eye on things like ensuring the home is clutter-free, the floors are dry, and that your loved one is wearing their life-alert button if they have one, etc.

At the end of each visit, the caregiver will make sure your loved one is comfortable and has everything they need until the next visit. They often communicate with family members via a note or update – either in the aforementioned care journal or verbally – about how the day went. For example, they might write, “Had a good day: John walked for 10 minutes outside and enjoyed lunch. Took all medications. No concerns, in good spirits.” This keeps you informed.

In summary, a caregiver’s visit is a blend of personal care, help with chores, health monitoring, and companionship activities​. You can expect your loved one to be well cared for physically and emotionally each time. Our caregivers aim to create a nurturing, enjoyable routine so that your family member not only stays safe and healthy, but also looks forward to each visit as a highlight of their day.

Yes, preparing a safe and respectful environment helps us provide the highest quality care. If you have pets, please disclose whether they have a history of aggression, especially if there has been any prior biting, so we can ensure the safety of both your loved one and our caregiver.

If your home is equipped with surveillance cameras, particularly those with audio recording, we require notification and clearly posted signage at the entryway to remain in compliance with California privacy laws. Additionally, if your residence has gate access codes, parking restrictions, or specific entry instructions, please provide those details in advance to ensure your caregiver can arrive on time and without confusion.

These simple steps help us deliver seamless, focused care from the very first visit—ensuring your loved one’s comfort and safety, and supporting your peace of mind.

Yes – you can adjust or cancel care, and we aim to be as flexible as possible. That said, we do have a few important policies in place to ensure fairness and consistency for our clients and caregivers.

To cancel or reschedule an individual shift, we require at least 24 hours’ notice. If less notice is given, you will be billed for the full scheduled shift, in accordance with our service agreement. For ongoing schedule changes – such as changing the number of hours per week or shifting regular visit days – we ask for 24–48 hours’ notice whenever possible to allow us to coordinate staffing.

We understand that emergencies happen. In cases such as hospitalization or last-minute health concerns, just let us know as soon as possible and we will do our best to waive any cancellation fees and support your changing needs. Our goal is to make sure the care schedule works for you and your family, not the other way around. You’re never locked into a rigid plan – if your needs increase, decrease, or shift over time, we’re here to help make that transition smooth.

Simply call our office with any changes, and we will take care of the rest.

We do not lock you into a long-term contract. All Heart Home Care operates with a service agreement that outlines our policies, but you are free to change or discontinue services at any time with reasonable notice. We understand that care needs can change. Perhaps your loved one’s condition improves, or you decide to try a different care arrangement – whatever the reason, you won’t be penalized for stopping services.

We require 72 hours’ written notice to cancel ongoing care. If less notice is given, clients will be billed for three days of service from the date of notice, as outlined in our agreement. Additionally, to cancel or reschedule an individual shift, we require at least 24 hours’ notice. If less notice is given, the full shift will be charged. There are no additional cancellation fees if proper notice is provided. If you need to temporarily pause services – for example, due to a hospitalization – we can hold the schedule and resume when you’re ready.

If your care needs change and you’d like to increase or reduce your hours, we are happy to accommodate. We ask for 24–48 hours’ notice for both minor and major schedule adjustments whenever possible. This allows us to inform caregivers and coordinate schedules smoothly, whenever possible. This allows us to inform caregivers and coordinate schedules smoothly.

Our services are designed to be flexible and responsive to your needs. Whether you need short-term support or ongoing in-home care, we’re here for you as long as you need us.

No – the initial home care assessment is free and obligation-free. During this visit, one of our experienced client relations managers will meet with you and your loved one at home (or at the hospital or rehabilitation facility if that’s where care is needed) to evaluate care needs, answer questions, and recommend a care plan. The consultation typically lasts about an hour.

Although the assessment itself is free, we do require a one-week refundable deposit before starting any care services. This deposit is applied toward any final balance when care services end. We also bill on a weekly basis for all services provided. These terms are clearly outlined during the intake process, and a signed service agreement is required before care begins.

We want you to feel confident in exploring care options with us without pressure. You will not be charged until you agree to begin care and complete the onboarding process. We strive to make it easy and transparent to get started with high-quality home care.

We hope this comprehensive FAQ has answered your questions. If you have any other inquiries or need further clarification about All Heart Home Care services in San Diego, please don’t hesitate to reach out. All Heart is here to guide you through every step of the caregiving journey with compassion, expertise, and reliable support.

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