Why is it so hard to find families who want to hire private caregivers?
I've been a private live in caregiver for a number of years now, working with a variety of clients with a wide range of needs. I have been looking to move on from my current client job but am finding it very difficult to find another family who wants to hire a private caregiver. This is confusing to me because as a caregiver who started out working through an agency, and who still works sometimes with employees of an agency for fill in purposes at my clients home, I have experienced firsthand how unreliable and problematic agencies are. The only two caregivers that my current clients family employed who have stuck around, and taken quality care of their mother are me and my coworker, both of whom who are private hire. Anytime we try to involve agencies in the mix it always brings drama, irresponsibility, and un-vetted caregivers into the home of my client. That being said, I know that my clients family is not unique in their experience with agencies as I have heard many horror stories from friends, and acquaintances with elderly loved ones. So why is it that people don't seem to look elsewhere for quality experienced caregivers?
That said there are many people who would rather hire privately because they can get more for their money, perhaps you aren't advertising in the right places?
You, because you have no unemployment insurance for the in between times. No worker's compensation insurance in the event that you get injured.
Them, because they can be penalized by Medicaid and not be eligible for assistance for the length of time the money paid to you could have paid for facility care. If you get injured and can not work, now they get to go through a lawsuit because you will not just grin and bear it.
Those are only a couple of examples. If you are really interested in proving that you are a reliable honest caregiver then you need to have things required by law in place, that speaks volumes to a potential customer.
I for one see your situation as a disaster that is avoidable and I question your reliability because you are so willing to disregard the law for your profession.
Why anyone would put themselves at risk regarding workers comp or short term disability is beyond me.
As makeadifference stated, you have to set yourself up as a legal entity to protect you and your client from harm.
There are already many state regulations in place it’s that these regs are not being enforced.
If you have your own business license, liability insurance, are bonded, have backup carers lined up for when you are ill, etc and operate as a company on your own then you could be hired as an independent contractor which might make someone more likely to consider you.
The Agency was licensed, bonded, insured, and had workman's comp for their employees in case one should get hurt on the job. The caregivers had their flu shots and yearly TB tests. Background checks and fingerprinted. The agency had monthly meetings and classes for their employees. I couldn't have asked for anything better. The cost was $30/hour which is the going rate in my area.
My Dad got to interview many of the caregivers when they came for their shift and he choose two to be on a regular schedule. These two caregivers had similar upbringing as Dad so they had a lot in common, and they both had a great sense of humor as my Dad was pretty funny. Even when my Dad sold his house and moved to senior living, he brought along the two caregivers, thus it gave Dad a routine he needed.
Rndaughter2, the Agency sent over a Rep who toured the house, she interviewed me about Dad's needs, and I in turn interviewed her. Dad needed someone to help him with daily routines, plus light housekeeping, and light cooking. Dad's day time caregiver would take Dad at noon time over to see my Mom who was living in long-term-care, and she helped feed Mom. The caregiver also took Dad to his numerous doctor appointments and was involved with his health. One caregiver would help Dad with light yardwork, she was glad to help as she wanted Dad out of the house to get some fresh air.
But my god. Read the post about caregiver taking pics of mom's stuff and sending to some man.
We ruled out private caregivers because so many are unreliable. Dink around on phone. Are lazy.,did I mention unreliable.
Again, I am not saying this about you. But goodness. It's appalling.
This is an industry which needs more regulation.
That said, attorneys with whom I work, have used a private caregiver for years. One in particular. But she is beyond our reach financially, but very good.
And that referral network is word of mouth amongst very very high earners.
And they pay her insurance and set up a 401k. She is well known in the FIRM. she is never without work. When one passes, others snatch her up.
Non-medical is different that medical,
Please look at seniorservicebusiness.com
They have all the laws rules, and is a good way, if someone wants to do it right.
It is all about being real, honest, caring and reporting to the IRS.
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