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Why should you consider hiring a caregiver?
First, let’s look at why you or a loved one might need a
personal caregiver. As people get older, there is a
certain defiance of the aging process. No one wants to
get to the point of losing a certain amount of
independence, nor admit that they are unable to do
things the way they always have. But it does happen. And
when it does, you’ll want compassionate, caring people
to help you make life easy and maintain as much
independence as possible.
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There
are many considerations that go into hiring a caregiver,
one of the most important of which is to ensure your, or
your loved one’s, safety and well-being. There are many
reputable companies and aides to be found;
unfortunately, there are also many people and companies
who are more interested in your money than in your
well-being.
These are some things to consider if you are thinking of
hiring a caregiver:
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Is the caregiver bonded and insured?
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Does he or she have benefit coverage (such as worker
compensation, disability, etc.)?
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Does the person have a clear criminal record?
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Have they been trained in basic caregiving skills
such as CPR/First Aid, personal care skills, fall
prevention, healthy meal preparation, various
specialty care such as diabetes, Parkinsons,
Alzheimers, arthritis, etc.?
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Do they have a clear DMV record, and current
driver’s license and insurance?
It
can take a lot of time, which you or your loved ones may
not be able to afford, to research and find out
information on potential caregivers. You will also have
to concern yourself with all the employment pay
including taxes and insurance (worker’s comp and
disability). This is a very important point because if
you choose to hire a caregiver on your own, you are
liable for all employment taxes, insurance, worker’s
comp, disability insurance, etc. Many of us are under
the mistaken notion that in-home care workers are
covered by our homeowner’s insurance. However, many
insurance companies specifically exclude in-home
worker’s liability, meaning you or a family member would
be responsible for all costs in the case of a
debilitating accident or injury to a caregiver.
According to John C. Gilliland II, legal counsel for
National Private Duty Association, “In-home care and —
depending on the circumstances — liability could fall on
the client or the client’s family — something they are
rarely aware of.”
There are many options for caregivers —
“under-the-table” deals where you hire a friend or
family member; companies that act as the middle person
by providing the caregiver but don’t take care of all
the taxes and liabilities; and full-service agencies. By
choosing a full-service agency, all of the
considerations listed above are part of the solution for
you. By providing compassionate care and support, you or
your loved one can continue to live independently and be
assured that your caregivers are highly qualified and
trained, as well as insured and bonded — there won’t be
any worries for you in regard to payroll taxes or
liability insurance.
Be wise and choose to provide the best care for yourself
or your loved one. The Better Business Bureau can give
you more information as to reputable agencies in your
area. |
