Step by Step Instructions for Hiring A Caregiver

Step 1.

You and your loved one need to sit down and write down the level of assistance that they need, their limitations and needs, doctor recommendations, expectations, dislikes, and likes. If your family member has Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term insurance, then you will need to have a report from their doctor that confirms that they need Houston in home care. Personal care isn't covered by Medicare if it's the only care that they need.

Step 2.

Find a responsible, compassionate, and trustworthy caregiver. Some of the top caregivers work at Assisting Hands Houston home care. Also, consider which is the best? A registry? Friends? An agency?

The answer to this question is an agency.

Before signing a contract with an agency, review our checklist of the important questions you should ask and then be sure to ask them before committing to the agency.

Advantages:

Passed background check. Prescreened workers.

Relevant experience. It is likely that agencies will have some caregivers who have experience with caring for individuals who struggle with the same condition or illness that your loved one is affected with.

Backup care. Usually, an agency can quickly find a replacement.

Addressing problems. Complaints and concerns are reported to a supervisor who then handles them.

Fast upgrades. If diagnosis or care level changes, then most agencies are able to provide a worker who more training right away.

No paperwork. You just pay the agency. Then after taking their percentage, they pay the worker. They handle all the scheduling, taxes, and payroll.

Liability protection. The agency will cover the expenses if a caregiver is injured while on the job.

Disadvantages:

Expense. You will have to pay more for a caregiver who is provided by an agency LIKE Assisting Hands Home Care Houston - and sometimes substantially more.

Limited negotiation. In general, individuals are more flexible than agencies when it comes to things like duties, overtime, and hours.

Minimum hours. A part-time schedule is not allowed by many agencies.

Little choice. The worker is selected by the agency, who might or might not get along with with your family member of you.

Option 1: Ask neighbors and friends who have hired caregivers for recommendations, hourly rates, names, and phone numbers. Get as many specifics as you can. The priorities that your neighbor has may not be the same as yours.

Option 2: Ask the community. Give your name and phone number along with the job specifics including hourly wage and needs - with receptionists of local community centers, yoga studios, local gyms, senior centers, and houses of worship.

Option 3: Contact your Local Agency on Agency to see if they offer referrals.

A registry

Local and at times state - employment registries offer lives of aides and nurses that are available in your area that you can call directly.

Advantages:

Better fit. It is more likely that you will be able to find a caregiver who has personality traits that will be appreciated by your loved one, shares the same interests, or speaks a second language.

Disadvantages:
Time. It can days or even weeks to do your own search and screen. Frequently agencies are able to get next-day care arranged.
Emergency coverage. Leaving for a new job, vacation, or sick days can upset everybody's schedule. You will have to arrange your own fallback plan.
You investigate. It is your responsibility to screen as well as verify the credentials of potential caregivers.
Paperwork. It is your responsibility to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and withhold and pay unemployment, Medicare, and Social Security taxes. You will need to confirm that the person can legally work in the U.S.
Training. Health aides from an agency receive training. You might want to pay for them to attend a training or refresher course.

You are the boss. You will have to handle the complaints.

Step 3.
Interview the applicants. If possible, your loved one should be part of the process. Prepare questions ahead of time. Be honest and clear about your job requirements.