Caregiver Standards

At Suzy’s Senior Companionship Services, we believe that great care begins with compassion — and that compassion is most effective when paired with thorough, ongoing training. Whether our aides are providing companionship, personal care, or safe transportation, every staff member is trained to serve with respect, safety, and professionalism. We care for some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and we take that responsibility seriously.

How We Train & Qualify Our Caregivers

Compassionate, professional care—because your loved one deserves the best.

At Suzy’s Senior Companionship Services, we know that welcoming a caregiver into your home is a big decision. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure every aide is thoroughly screened, trained, and supported to provide safe, compassionate care to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Our Caregiver Qualifications

Before providing care, every Suzy’s aide must complete:

  • A TB test
  • DACS fingerprint-based background check
  • A structured interview and reference screening
  • Signed commitment to our Code of Conduct and Ethics

These initial steps help us ensure that all aides meet our high standards of professionalism and character before ever entering a client’s home.

Required Training for All Staff

All employees — including caregivers, companions, and drivers — complete a minimum of 6 hours of paid training annually. This training includes:

  • Employee Handbook overview
  • First Aid
  • Adult Protective Services & Elder Abuse Prevention

All staff have access to our employee training portal and receive ongoing support to ensure compliance and competency throughout the year.

Additional Training for Drivers

Any staff member who drives a client or uses a company vehicle is considered a driver and must complete the RTAP “2 the Point” training (2.5 hours) and a full suite of safety-focused courses, including:

  • ADA and Sensitivity
  • Bloodborne Pathogens
  • Emergency Management
  • Passenger Safety & Defensive Driving
  • Transporting Non-Ambulatory Passengers
  • Distracted Driving, Drugs & Alcohol Awareness, and more

In addition, drivers receive in-person training covering both wheelchair and ambulatory transportation.

Specialized and Ongoing Training

To better serve our diverse clients, our staff may also complete additional training modules, such as:

  • Fall Risk Prevention
  • Fraud & Scams Targeting Seniors
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Nonprofits
  • Fire Safety
  • Caregiver Responsibilities & Domestic Violence Awareness
  • Winter Driving, Car Maintenance, and Clean Vehicle Practices

Our team is constantly growing in knowledge to ensure that your loved one receives care that’s not only kind and reliable, but also safe and responsive to their needs.

Why It Matters

Training is more than a checklist; it’s a promise. A promise that your loved one is in capable hands. That every aide has the tools and knowledge to respond with calm, compassion, and confidence. At Suzy’s, we don’t just care, we care with purpose, preparation, and heart.

Want to Learn More?

We’re happy to answer any questions about how we train and support our caregivers. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation.