Hiring a Private Caregiver Presents an Administrative Burden, but There’s Help
Dear Carol: We’ve used caregivers through an agency for my mom who has dementia, but locally they are all short-staffed and unreliable. My cousin has a private caregiver for her mom, and she says that works great. What scares me is that I’m not comfortable paying them “under the table,” yet I don’t know how to do all the payroll and tax things we’re supposed to do. Even if I did, I don’t think I have the time to do the legal paperwork. Are there any shortcuts that ensure the caregiver gets paid the right way but won’t cost an arm and a leg? Thanks so much! – PC
Dear PC: Thank you for stepping up to help your mom. Dementia care is incredibly challenging. Part of good care is understanding when help is needed, and you are on target with that as well. Most caregivers go through an agency for the reasons you mentioned. While you’ll generally pay more, they handle the hiring, background checks…
Helpful Tools:
SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence. Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “I hold onto your book as a life preserver and am reading it slowly on purpose…I don’t want it to end.” …Craig William Dayton, Film Composer
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
