Validating in-home providers serves as an important safety measure for seniors

It’s a good rule of thumb to seek validation of anyone who is providing services in your home. For seniors in the area who receive home health or other similar services, the Area Agency on Aging District 7, Inc. (AAA7) asks seniors to be particularly aware of possible home health agency imposters who may come to homes claiming they provide services. Currently, these reports have generated from Highland County; however, the AAA7 asks all seniors to heighten the awareness for their safety and protection.

Services provided through the AAA7 are made possible through a number of Provider Agencies located within the Agency’s 10-county District.  AAA7 provides services in the following Ohio counties: Adams, Brown, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto and Vinton.

The AAA7 provides the following advice: Do not allow anyone in your home if the individual cannot provide proper identification such as an employee name badge. If the individual claims they are from a Home Health Agency but it does not appear they are or they cannot provide the proper identification, call the Home Health Agency to confirm. Provider Agency employees should be in a standard company uniform and have proper Agency identification. If an employee is from the Area Agency on Aging, they should have the proper AAA7 photo identification and leave a business card with the consumer upon departure.

AAA7 staff who visit homes for assessments gather personal information for referral purposes and will provide the consumer with a release of information form for signature and an AAA7 Statement of Privacy Practices. If the individual receives a call from the AAA7, an employee name and call back number will always be presented to the consumer. At anytime if an individual is unsure whether the provider is legitimate, AAA7 suggests that the consumer call the agency that is providing the service immediately.  

If the provider’s presence is making the consumer uncomfortable, AAA7 suggests that the consumer ask the individual to leave their home. If the individual is unable to reach their Provider Agency, call the AAA7 toll-free at 1-800-582-7277.

Your local Area Agency on Aging District 7, Inc. serves the following counties in Ohio: Adams, Brown, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto and Vinton. Services are rendered on a non-discriminatory basis. Those interested in learning more about the services provided through the Area Agency on Aging District 7 can also call toll-free at 1-800-582-7277. Here, individuals can talk directly with a nurse or social worker who will assist them with information surrounding the programs and services that are available to best serve their needs.