As you get old, you need the services that will enable you to live a normal life and enjoy your independence. In-home care is one way that you can achieve all these. However, it is not easy to make an informed decision unless you obtain the necessary information. In-home caregivers are responsible for providing assistance with your daily activities such as dressing, transportation, medication monitoring, meal preparation, and grooming.
These activities are not the same as home health services which are only offered by licensed professionals. In-home caregivers do not have to perform complex health care services. So if you are looking for quality in-home care service, there are many ways you can get a reliable provider.
Searching for quality in-home caregiver
One way that you can find in-home care is through referrals. A health care professional or anyone who has used the service before can provide you such recommendations. You can either use an agency or hire the caregiver directly. You should know the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a freelance caregiver before you decide whether or not it is right for you. One of the major benefits of hiring a freelance caregiver is the lower cost.
However, you have to keep in mind that as an employer, you will need to shoulder the insurance, taxes and even the worker’s compensation. Freelance caregivers are also not considered as independent contractors based on tax and labor laws. With that said, you can put your family at risk by violating tax and labor laws.
Work related injuries are inevitable. Since they are not covered by your homeowner’s insurance, live-in caregivers are considered as a tenant, which can make things more complicated. You need to consult with legal and tax insurance professionals before you consider hiring a freelance caregiver. Safety is another factor you have to take into account when hiring a freelance caregiver. Are you aware of the freelance caregiver’s work history? Have you verified if they have a criminal record? The applicant needs to list their training, experience and references.
If you will hire in-home caregivers through an agency, you are assured that they are bonded and licensed. Like in home care giver San Antonio companies, you will gain peace of mind because you will no longer have to worry about insurance, accounting and taxes. When you choose an agency, it is important that you know the services offered. You will also need to check their references to make sure that they are recognized by the Better Business Bureau. Make the right choice by comparing the features, services and costs. Ask questions so you will know more about the agency.
Essential questions to ask
What are the services you provide?
In most cases, caregivers provide transportation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, medication monitoring, and even higher levels of care like Alzheimer’s care and heavy transfers. The services that the agency offers must be clearly stated in writing.
What are the cancellation policy and costs?
Each agency has unique cancellation policy that you need to be aware of. You have to know the cost of the services offered as well. Some agencies charge by the hour while others by the shift or job. The cost of the service must be outlined in writing as well. It is one way for you to know what you are getting for your money. There are also agencies that will require you to pay a deposit before the services are provided. This policy must also be outlined as well to avoid confusion.
How long have you been in business?
If the agency has been in the business for decades, it means that they have the much needed experience to perform the job properly especially if the patient has a special need. With years of experience as an agency, you are confident that the caregiver has proper training, skills and experience for the job.
Is your agency licensed, insured and bonded?
Before hiring a caregiver through an agency, be sure that you ask a copy of the required liability insurance policy and required licenses. You must keep your copies as you might need them in the future.
Obtaining the right information can help you to determine the caregiver that matches your needs. Hiring a caregiver is challenging but asking questions can make a difference.
