Holding the hand of a loved one is not always something family can do around the clock, but it is something Home Aides specializes in.

The home care agency offers companionship or home support, which would be meal preparation, medication, reminders, some light housekeeping, maybe some grocery shopping and things like that.

The locally owned company handles the non-medical side of home care. The personal care could be anything from bathing or showering to dressing.

Cindy Slomski is the company administrator. She started in the field as a caretaker and knows what it means for families and those who come to help them.

"It can be scary for the caregivers to go into homes of strangers, and go in there and take personal care of somebody, just as it would be scary for somebody to have someone come into their home," said Slomski.

She said extensive background checks are done before caretakers are hired. Once someone is, office staff schedule home visits to find the perfect fit for a family.

That goes for transportation needs. Home aides has a fleet for taking people to appointments and transport people in both stretchers and wheelchairs.

It's part of the services offered at the business, which started in 2012 and now is in its third location along Peach St. in Erie.

Even if a home health aide calls off, it's their responsibility to find a replacement. If not, there's a contingency plan.

"If for an extreme circumstance, we are unable to cover this shift, who can we notify for you that can come and help you in place of our caregivers."

It's all in an effort to help ease the stress of people and families in need of a helping hand.

Home Aides works with insurance companies through private pay and state funding. They help people across five counties in the region, providing essential support and care.