Checklist: Choosing in-home elder care in New Zealand

Use this checklist to guide your search for the right home support for your loved one or yourself.

✅ Step 1: Understand your care needs

• Identified the types of support needed.
  (e.g. personal care, mobility help, companionship, transport)
• How often is care needed?
  (e.g. full-time, part-time, overnight, respite)
• Consider any cultural, language, or personal preferences.
• Arrange an NASC assessment (if applicable) to check for public funding support.

✅ Step 2: Explore your care options

• Are we clear on whether we’ll provide care ourselves or bring in support?
• Compared:
  • Agency-based care
  • Independent caregivers (e.g. through Mycare)
• Do we understand the pros and cons of each approach?

✅ Step 3: Know what to look for in a caregiver

• List any must-haves in terms of experience or qualifications.
• Consider soft skills like warmth, patience, and communication style.
• Arrange a meet-and-greet or trial session.
• Check references or read reviews (if available).

✅ Step 4: Understand cost and funding options

• Do we have a sense of the weekly/monthly budget for care?
• Explored:
  • Carer Support Subsidy
  • Disability Allowance
  • SuperGold Card discounts
  • NASC-funded services
• Speak to a GP, NASC team, or social worker about available support.

✅ Step 5: Use the right tools to simplify your search

• Search on Mycare for local caregivers.
• Filter by location, skills, and availability.
• Message questions to any potential caregivers.
• Set up a trial to see how things go.

✅ Step 6: Look after yourself too

• Are we building in breaks or respite time as a carer?
• Do we have support from others (family, friends, support groups)?
• Are we taking care of our health and well-being?
• Are we open to adjusting care as things change?