Hiring a home caregiver carries a number of difficulties, risks and concerns, and many people wonder how to go about the process. Learn the pros and cons of hiring an in-home caregiver, both independently and through an agency, and how an elder law attorney can help.

Private vs. Agency

There are two different kinds of in-home caregivers — those who work independently, and those who work through an agency. You’re hiring someone to build a relationship with your senior loved one, who you can trust with their life and to help with everything from running errands to grooming and bathing. Whether you hire a private or agency-based caregiver is based on a number of factors. Let’s examine the pros and cons of each.

Pros of a Private Caregiver

With a private caregiver, you have the option to meet and interview the exact person you are hiring, and you make the final decision on who will work with you and your loved ones. You can also decide whether to prioritize certification and training, or years of experience in the service.

Often, home care agencies might be limited or not taking on new clients, while there’s always the option to find a private caregiver. It’s also often less expensive to hire a private worker, and they won’t have to pay a cut of their wages to the agency, so in a sense you are supporting a local small business.

Cons of Private Caregivers

On the downside, private caregivers can be very hard to find, and are not always as reliable as those who work with an agency. For instance, if your caregiver can’t make it to work, you need a backup plan to take care of your loved one for that day.

You also are responsible for the interview process, background checks, vetting, and all employee tax and payroll records and withholding, which can be tough skill sets to learn. Finally, you will need to carry insurance against job-related incidents that could come up.

Pros of an Agency

With an agency, you have an easy means to vet the services you’re getting, and you have less to worry about in terms of someone not showing up for work. You’re also getting someone you know is formally trained and vetted, and you don’t have to worry about withholding taxes, or insurance against accidents and workers’ comp. The agency’s bonding also protects you against damages that might arise.

Cons of an Agency

Your loved one may have to deal with a number of different caregivers, making it tougher to establish a rapport. With an agency you also have less input in the selection of help, and the agency will likely cost you more, since they have their own expenses to cover in addition to the salary of the CNA.

Elder Law Attorneys

No matter how careful you are in your selection, sometimes awful things happen and unscrupulous individuals slip through the cracks. If you or a loved one has been the victim of abuse or shady activity by a home care professional, call a qualified elder law attorney for help. For those who live in Cuyahoga County and are in need of help, call Stano Law to discuss your case and get help today.