Guide to Hiring a Caregiver
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Most people prefer to remain in their own home for as long as possible, regardless of their disabilities. Families or responsible parties for the disabled person will always try to accommodate such a preference according to financial situation, care needs, condition of the home and other considerations. With the rising cost of care at home, most family opt to hire a caregiver privately to save money. It is advisable you research on other ways to get a care provider and weigh their pros and cons.
We have identified three options in hiring a caregiver. Compare them and choose wisely.
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Option1
Hire a caregiver employed by
the Home Care Agency | |
Benefits
Agency is the employer who is responsible for screening, hiring/firing, training & payroll.
Agency is has total responsibility for the manner of delivery of services by the caregiver.
Agency is responsible for finding a replacement if caregiver is unable to report to work or was terminated by the client.
Agency is usually "insured and bonded", but just be aware that having a bonded agency does not guarantee that you will be reimbursed should a theft occur because there would need to be an arrest and a conviction.
Agency provides worker's compensation, pays the payroll taxes and may provide employee benefits (health insurance, retirement savings, etc.) to their caregivers.
Long-term care insurance can cover the cost.
Downside
Cost is very high. The current hourly rate is up to $26/hour. A 24/7 coverage (live-in) costing $275/day will amount to over $8,000.00 per month!
Multiple caregivers may have to be assigned to cover different shifts and days which can lead to confusion and cause distress for the senior client.
Client/family has less control over who is being sent to them.
 | Option 2
Use the Home Care Agency
to assist you in finding a Caregiver Benefits
For a fee ("finder's fee"), the agency will post the advertising, interview and check references; the client makes the final selection.
Agency can find replacement if caregiver is unable to report or has been dismissed by client.
Cost is lower than a caregiver employed by the agency. Current hourly
Long-term insurance can cover the cost. Downside
You are the employer thus responsible for supervision, payroll taxes worker's compensation |
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 | Option 3
Find Caregiver Yourself Benefits
You have the choice to hire who you feel can to the best job.
You negotiate the rate which is usually much less expensive than getting a caregiver through the agency.
A good personal relationship between the caregiver and the senior client is highly achievable.
Downside
You do the search yourself- post ads, get personal recommendations from people you know, etc.
You are responsible for the entire hiring process.
You are the employer who will oversee the caregiver. If your caregiver is unable to report, you will be the one to look for replacement (which often is hard to get on a short notice).
Long-term care insurance will not cover. |
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