Before the first visit: a practical guide to requesting support
Updated: Sep 20
A first conversation about support can feel like a lot to organize. You do not need a perfect care plan before you reach out. A few thoughtful notes can help a provider understand the person, the support being requested, and the questions that still need answers. Start with daily life, and build from there.
Start with the person and a good day
Ask the person receiving support what they want their day to look like. What would they like to keep doing independently? Which routines feel difficult? What activities, places, or people matter most? Someone may want help preparing lunch while continuing to choose the menu. Another person may value a familiar companion for an outing or a calmer transition between activities.
These details make a request more useful than a list of tasks alone.
Write down communication preferences, favorite interests, and anything a new caregiver should know to make an introduction comfortable. Include the person's own words when possible. If someone helps communicate their preferences, make clear whose perspective each note represents.
Describe a typical week
Sketch the times when support would be most helpful. Separate the schedule you need from times that are flexible. For example: Tuesday and Thursday afternoons are essential; a third visit could happen on another weekday. Include the estimated number of hours, preferred start date, and whether you need daytime, evening, overnight, or weekend support.
List the practical activities you want to discuss, such as companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal routines, or community participation. Explain what help means for each activity: a reminder, shared participation, or more direct assistance. The provider will need to confirm which tasks fit the service program and available staff.
Identify the program and the open questions
CareOne Connected's request form includes APD, Florida Community Care, and Private Pay Companion. Selecting a program starts a conversation; it does not establish eligibility, authorize hours, or reserve a caregiver. For an APD request, include your support coordinator in the discussion when applicable.
APD's application information is the source for eligibility and application requirements.
Have your service-area ZIP code ready. It helps the provider check location and staffing. You can also note the interests, communication style, and experience you hope to find in a caregiver. Distinguish an essential support need from a preference so the team can discuss realistic options.
Agree on a first-visit plan
Before services begin, ask who will confirm the schedule, which tasks are included, and how changes or absences are handled. Discuss how the person receiving support can give feedback. Agree on a simple way to share important updates, who should receive them, and what information should remain private.
A useful introduction can include a short tour, a review of the agreed activities, and time for the person and caregiver to get to know each other. Make room to adjust the routine after the first visits. A plan should describe what is helpful in real life, not just what looked good on paper.
Keep a short checklist
Bring these six items to your conversation: the person's goals; the ZIP code; the requested program; a weekly schedule; the activities where help is needed; and your unanswered questions. Keep sensitive records out of a general inquiry unless the team provides an appropriate way to share them.
For families navigating dementia, the Alzheimer's Association also offers planning, daily-care, and caregiver-support resources. Its guidance can help you identify topics to discuss with the person's care team.
