Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Caregiver Agency

Does your agency have experience working with ALS patients? 

Do you have caregivers who have specific experience with ALS patients? 

Do your caregivers understand that ALS symptoms manifest uniquely for each patient? 

Do your caregivers understand that ALS symptoms change and worsen over time? That the patient becomes less and less mobile and requires more and more assistance as time progresses?

Do your caregivers understand the purpose of a POLST? (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) Do they understand what to do with the POLST when 911 is called or an ambulance arrives or an accident occurs in public? 

Are your caregivers trained in the following:

• Heimlich maneuver
• Proper use of a gait belt
• Proper use of a cough assist machine? 
• Proper use of a suction machine? 
• Proper use of leg compression boots? 
• Proper use of thickening agent for liquids (drinks or soups)? 

Are your caregivers comfortable with performing all necessary ADLs (activities of daily living) for the ALS patient? This includes: 

• Bathing all body parts
• Toilet assistance 
• Brushing and flossing teeth
• Getting dressed
• Feeding and drinking
• Blowing and picking nose