The vast majority of seniors will choose to stay in the comfort of their own homes, if given the chance, rather than move into a nursing home. Allowing your aging parents to reside in their homes can do quite a bit for their health, as happy people tend to be much healthier than unhappy people. It also can help cut down on costs quite a bit, as nursing homes can be a drain on a family’s finances. If the elders in your family stay in their homes, chances are they will need an in-home caregiver at some point down the road.
There are benefits and downfalls to both hiring a caregiver independently and going through a care agency. Let’s take a look at both scenarios.
Hiring Directly
PROS:
- Control over the hiring process- only hire someone you feel comfortable with and the elder likes
- Less expensive than using an agency
- Consistency in care and care provider
CONS:
- Tax issues- you will be responsible for paying taxes, social security and Medicare withholding
- Liability issues- most private care providers will not carry liability insurance
- May be left without care if provider is sick or takes vacation
Hiring Via an Angency
PROS:
- Agency is employer, so responsible for taxes and withholding
- Liability insurance in case of accident or neglect
- Formal background screening, drug screening and supervision
- Likely provides back-up caregiver
CONS:
- May have no say in choice of caregiver
- May lack consistent caregiver, rotating schedules possible
- More expensive than hiring direct
