What to look for when hiring a caregiver

HOME CARE

by Cindy Tostado

GRF member resource/assistance liaison

As one ages in place it might become necessary to employ someone to assist you with the simple things we usually take for granted. Home care typically includes a non-medical companion who provides such assistance. Services may include, but are not limited to:

• Companionship and socialization

• Personal grooming, such as bathing, dressing, incontinence care

• Light housekeeping such as changing bed linens, laundry, dusting, and vacuuming

• Meal preparation, including grocery shopping

• Accompaniment to medical appointments and other errands

• Medication management/reminders Getting Ready to Hire Assistance:

In the home care environment, it’s important to understand the differences between hiring an independent contractor vs. an employee of a certified company or the employer model.

An independent contractor’s advertised rates may be lower, however as you (the employer) are responsible for paying caregivers, keeping track of hours, sick days and overtime. You are responsible for withholding taxes, SSI and Worker’s Compensation. You are responsible for medical bills and disability compensation if there is a work-related injury. You are responsible for managing schedule changes, discipline, and hiring and firing. You are responsible for screening, checking criminal records and validating references prior to hiring. Lastly, you are responsible for unemployment compensation.

The American Board of Home Care (ABHC) states, “Most people don’t understand that by having an independent contractor working for them in their home, they are putting themselves at risk and assuming increased liability.” ABHC was established to educate seniors and their families so they can make informed decisions when choosing a caregiver and avoid unnecessary risk and liability.

The employer model’s rates are higher than those of an independent contractor; however, you are not responsible for the risks mentioned above. Arranging home care through a company that is the legal employer of the caregiver lets you avoid the associated legal and financial responsibilities, safeguarding you from liability and protecting your family’s assets.

Here are suggestions for success when hiring care:

• Identify what types of assistance you may need. Clearly state your needs and expectations, be open to suggestions, and remember you can always scale back the care if you do not find it helpful. • Ask if the caregiver has experience and references, and if through an agency, can you interview him or her?

What are the charges per hour, is there a minimum number of hours, and what services are included in the charges?

• If the caregiver is sick for the day, what is the agency’s policy on arranging substitute care?

• What happens if the caregiver gets injured in your home?

• Can you reach the agency after business hours or on weekends?

• Ask yourself if you are comfortable with this person in your home.

• Can I understand the caregiver clearly, and does the caregiver understand me?

Paying for Care:

Medicare and Senior HMO’s, as well as other medical insurance plans, do not fully cover companion care.

Companion care services can be paid directly by the patient and his/her family members or through a variety of public and private sources.

Sources for Home Care Services can include Medicare, Medi-Cal, the Veteran’s Administration, and private insurance.

Each has its own limitations and eligibility guidelines.

Last Tips When Hiring Care:

• Do not do this alone; enlist trustworthy family members or friends whom you can rely upon when getting ready to hire help.

• After care is in place, ask your trustworthy family members or friends to check in with you on a regular basis to make sure everything is going well.

• Put away your valuables and personal information such as banking, social security numbers, etc.

• If you do not have people you can rely upon, reach out for recommendations on a professional fiduciary.

• Most important, remember that you are in charge and in control of your care.

For more information, contact the American Board of Home Care at http:// www. americanboardofhomecare. org or (877) 436-5259; Professional Fiduciaries Bureau at https://www.fiduciary. ca.gov or (916) 574-7340.