There are a few factors that need to be taken into account when deciding between an agency or a private caregiver. Leaving your home and your senior in the hands of a stranger might prove difficult. The best approach is one with caution. Think steadily, and listen to our advice on what to look for when choosing between an in-home caregiver agency, or an individual.
Pros and Cons of an Agency
Using an agency will appear to be the ideal choice, and it definitely has its advantages. For example, they offer training for their employees, they do background checks, and they handle things such are payroll, paperwork, and other legal issues. Also, thanks to their status as a company, they always have a backup in case your in-home caregiver can’t be there for the day or week.
This also has its downsides, such as lack of personal connection. You sometimes feel like you are working with a faceless corporation. Using an agency has its cost, which is higher than when you work with a single caregiver.
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Pros and Cons of Hiring a Private In-Home Caregiver
If you opt for the individual option, you will be provided with very different advantages and disadvantages. The control will be in your hands. With eye-to-eye contact, you will be able to better assess the person that is going to become a part of your life. But, by doing this, you will have more work on your toes. Knowing what kind of candidate you want is one thing, but finding one is another. Additionally, once you find your ideal caretaker, it’s wise to find a backup should your first choice be unavailable.
Checklist of Hiring a Private Caretaker
Regardless of your choice, here is a list of important things to have in mind when hiring an in-home caregiver:
- Check that he/she has all the necessary licensees and credentials.
- Be sure to run a detail background check.
- Ask for references.
- Look into their immigration status if you are choosing a non-American.
- Make sure that you sign a ‘clean contract.’ Legalities matter!
- Make payments legal; it is essential not to avoid or bend laws.
With these crucial points in mind, you’re on the right path for choosing an ideal asset to the family.
Featured image source: www.aarp.org
