WESTPORT, Conn., July 13, 2006 -- There are four basic ways to hire quality caregivers for a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease or dementia: 1) through a home health care agency; 2) through an employment or placement agency; 3) work/life programs; or 4) on your own.
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Home health care agencies place medical professionals (such as home health aides, certified nurses' aides, respite caregivers, therapists and registered nurses) on a part- or full-time basis. These professionals are usually bonded and insured, and supervised by a registered nurse (where applicable). Home health care agencies are state-licensed and serve as the employer, handling all compensation and tax matters on behalf of their medical professionals. |
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Employment/placement agencies offer placement services for adult care professionals but, unlike home health care agencies, these professionals are not typically supervised by registered nurses. Additionally, an employment agency usually requires you to become the "employer" of the caregiver -- meaning you are responsible for adhering to employment laws and regulations, including state and federal tax obligations. |
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Work/life programs (sometimes known as resource and referral programs) are provided to many individuals through their employers. These programs can help you better understand your options and locate affordable, reliable care in your area. |
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Hiring a caregiver on your own is also an option. Contact your local hospital, the Alzheimer's Association, senior centers or religious centers for information and referrals, or place an advertisement for a caregiver in your local paper. Carefully interview and screen all candidates, and consider conducting background checks on the finalists. (Some background-checking agencies may be able to help for a fee.) Keep in mind that if you hire a caregiver on your own, you will be responsible for adhering to employment laws and regulations, including state and federal tax obligations. |
About LifeCare ®, Inc.
For 22 years, LifeCare has provided people with customized care plans for all aspects of their personal and professional lives, including elder care and healthy aging, child care and parenting, education and personal growth, financial and legal matters, and more. LifeCare's Successful AgingSM Services help individuals resolve the full spectrum of mid-life and aging issues, including adult caregiving, cognitive health issues, legal and financial matters, and pre- and post retirement planning. LifeCare serves 1,500 client companies with 4.5 million individuals within corporations, health plans, government agencies and unions. For more information, visit www.lifecare.com.
Media contact: Michael Civiello
LifeCare, Inc.
pr1[at]lifecare.com
203-291-4170