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Hiring Caregivers: The Importance of Safety When Hiring a Caregiver for Your Aging Parent

July 24, 2012

At some point in time, many adults will find themselves in the position of hiring a caregiver for an aging parent or other senior family member. The easiest way to find a caregiver is via personal recommendation from a trusted party or by sifting through the classified ads on sites such as Craigslist. While some money and time may be saved by using this method, it is not wisest choice in the long term.

The biggest issue in hiring independently… is liability.

The family will literally become the employer and as such would be responsible for any medical and disability expenses the cargiver might incur. People who work freelance in the caregiving industry also tend to leave it very quickly and move on, which could create a difficult situation for the family involved. Most of all, it is more difficult to know what the person’s background actually is, and hiring an independent caregiver is taking a big chance on safety.

Peace of Mind

Hiring through a home care agency will bring peace of mind by knowing details such as withholding, taxes and insurance are taken care of. Agencies can also perform thorough background checks as well as drug testing, and only hire dedicated people who are qualified to do the job. When all of this is factored in, the cost is roughly the same as an independent hire.

Training and Monitoring

A caregiver who works through an agency is trained in first aid techniques and CPR and is also insured and bonded. That person must follow rules and a code of ethics set by the agency. If a CNA is working in a home, that person may be checked up on regularly by a nurse to ensure everything is being done properly.

The Right Caregiver for the Job

A home care agency also offers the choice of different caregiving personnel so if one is not quite the right fit, another person may be substituted. Another advantage is always having someone available to step in if the regular caregiver becomes ill or cannot work for some other reason. The family can avoid the panic of calling around for a replacement and possibly missing work or school if one cannot be found.

When it comes to a beloved senior, the safety and reliability of a home care agency is the best way to go.

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About the author

Tyler Williams

As an Area Owner and Operator of a Home Matters Caregiving franchise, I am committed to ensuring exceptional outcomes for our valued clients and caregivers. My passion for elevating our service quality is matched by my role as a blogger and social media manager for the franchise, where I share insights, updates, and foster community engagement. Prior to senior care, I used my strategic communication and brand development skills as the Marketing Director of a regional bank. My diverse experience supports my commitment to excellence and innovation in both healthcare and digital communication.
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“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I