Apollo Home Care is a brand name used by several independently owned and operated home care franchises across the United States that provide non-medical in-home assistance to seniors, adults with disabilities, and others who need help with daily activities. These services are designed to help people remain safely in their own homes rather than moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home.
Background and Company Overview
Apollo Home Care operates as a franchise network, meaning individual locations are owned by local operators who license the brand name and business model from a parent company. The parent organization, Apollo Home Care, LLC, is based in Kentucky and began franchising in the early 2000s. Each franchise is independently owned and operated, so specific services, pricing, and availability vary by location.
The company focuses on non-medical home care, which distinguishes it from home health care. Non-medical care involves assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, and companionship. It does not include skilled nursing, physical therapy, or other medical services that require a licensed healthcare professional.
Services Offered
Apollo Home Care franchises typically offer a range of services tailored to individual needs. Common services include:
- Personal care: bathing, grooming, toileting, and mobility assistance
- Companionship: conversation, reading, games, and social interaction
- Meal preparation: planning and cooking meals, including special diets
- Light housekeeping: cleaning, laundry, and tidying up
- Transportation: driving clients to appointments, errands, and social outings
- Medication reminders: verbal prompts to take prescribed medications
- Respite care: temporary relief for family caregivers
Some locations also offer specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or Parkinson’s disease, as well as post-surgery or post-hospitalization support. However, the exact menu of services depends on the individual franchise and the state regulations governing non-medical home care.
How Apollo Home Care Works
The process typically begins with a free in-home consultation. A representative from the local Apollo Home Care franchise meets with the client and their family to assess needs, preferences, and living situation. Based on this assessment, they develop a personalized care plan.
Care is provided by trained caregivers who are employees of the franchise, not independent contractors. Caregivers are background-checked, insured, and bonded. They receive training in areas such as fall prevention, infection control, and communication with clients who have cognitive impairments.
Services can be scheduled on an hourly basis, overnight, or 24/7 live-in care. Some franchises also offer a minimum number of hours per visit, which varies by location. Clients and families can adjust the care plan as needs change.
Costs and Payment Options
The cost of Apollo Home Care varies widely by geographic location, level of care needed, and the number of hours per week. As of recent data, non-medical home care in the United States averages around $20 to $30 per hour, but this can be higher in metropolitan areas or for specialized dementia care.
Payment options typically include:
- Private pay: out-of-pocket payments by the client or family
- Long-term care insurance: many policies cover non-medical home care, but coverage varies
- Veterans benefits: the VA Aid and Attendance benefit may help eligible veterans and their spouses
- Medicaid waiver programs: some states offer home and community-based services waivers that cover non-medical care for qualifying individuals
Medicare generally does not cover non-medical home care, though it may cover short-term skilled home health care if ordered by a physician. It is important to verify coverage with the specific franchise and the insurance provider.
Choosing Apollo Home Care vs. Other Options
When comparing Apollo Home Care to other home care providers, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation and licensing: check if the franchise is licensed by the state and accredited by organizations like the Joint Commission or the Home Care Association of America
- Caregiver training and turnover: ask about training requirements and how the franchise retains caregivers
- Availability and response time: inquire about backup plans if a caregiver is unavailable
- Client reviews and references: request references from current or past clients
- Cost transparency: get a written estimate and ask about any additional fees
Unlike home health agencies, which provide skilled medical care, Apollo Home Care focuses on non-medical support. If a client needs wound care, physical therapy, or medication administration by a nurse, a home health agency would be more appropriate. Some families use both types of services simultaneously.
Common Concerns and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that all Apollo Home Care franchises are the same. Because each location is independently owned, quality, pricing, and services can differ significantly. It is essential to evaluate the specific franchise in your area, not just the brand name.
Another concern is whether caregivers are employees or independent contractors. Apollo Home Care hires caregivers as employees, which generally means they are more accountable and receive better training and supervision than independent contractors. However, this can also affect pricing, as employee costs are higher.
Some families worry about the reliability of caregivers. Reputable franchises have backup systems in place, but it is wise to ask about their protocol if a caregiver calls in sick or does not show up. Also, ask about how they handle complaints or changes in care plans.
Safety and Quality Assurance
Safety is a primary concern for any home care service. Apollo Home Care franchises are expected to follow state regulations and industry best practices. This includes conducting background checks on caregivers, providing ongoing training, and supervising caregivers in the field.
When choosing a franchise, ask about their safety protocols, such as:
- How they screen and train caregivers
- Whether they conduct regular supervisory visits
- How they handle medical emergencies or accidents
- Whether they have liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
It is also advisable to ask for a written care plan and to review it regularly with the franchise. Communication between the family, the client, and the caregiver is key to ensuring safety and satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Apollo Home Care provide medical care?
No, Apollo Home Care provides non-medical assistance only. Caregivers can help with daily activities and medication reminders, but they cannot administer medications, change dressings, or perform any medical procedures. For skilled medical care, you would need a home health agency with licensed nurses or therapists.
How much does Apollo Home Care cost per hour?
Hourly rates vary by location and level of care, but generally range from $20 to $30 per hour. Some franchises may have a minimum number of hours per visit, and overnight or live-in care may have different rates. It is best to request a personalized quote from your local franchise.
Does Medicare pay for Apollo Home Care?
Medicare typically does not cover non-medical home care. Medicare covers home health services only when they are medically necessary and provided by a certified home health agency, such as skilled nursing or therapy. Apollo Home Care services are not considered medically necessary, so they are usually paid for out of pocket or through long-term care insurance or other programs.
Can I choose my caregiver?
Many Apollo Home Care franchises allow you to request a specific caregiver, subject to availability. You can also request a change if you are not comfortable with a particular caregiver. It is best to discuss your preferences during the initial consultation.
Is Apollo Home Care available in my area?
Apollo Home Care has franchise locations in several states, primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. To find out if there is a location near you, visit the official Apollo Home Care website or search for “Apollo Home Care” followed by your city or state. If there is no franchise in your area, you may want to consider other non-medical home care providers.
What is the difference between Apollo Home Care and a home health agency?
Apollo Home Care provides non-medical assistance with daily living, while a home health agency provides skilled medical care such as nursing, physical therapy, and wound care. Home health agencies are typically Medicare-certified and require a physician’s order. Some clients use both services simultaneously, but they serve different purposes.
Related
- Closest Athens Port to Airport: Quick Answer
- How Many Apollo Missions Were There?
- How Long Does Poseidon Sink? Myth & Meaning
How pages are sourced and corrected: Sources and editorial policy.