Home care is the service where a caregiver comes into the home and helps out with all the activities of daily life. Every senior citizen could use this helpful service at some point, especially if they wish to continue to live in their own home.
When you or your loved ones begin the search for in-home care, you might ask yourself this important question: How can I decide between a home care agency vs. private caregiver? Read on to find out which option could be best for your family.
Pros and Cons of a Home Care Agency vs. Private Caregiver
Hiring an independent caregiver and hiring an agency both have their pros and cons. Many people focus only on the cost difference between hiring privately and going with an agency — and they see that a private hire is cheaper.
But there are many good reasons why an agency could be worth a little extra expense to get the quality of care you’re looking for.
Pros for Hiring a Private Caregiver
- A private caregiver may have a lower average hourly rate than an agency.
Cons for Hiring a Private Caregiver
- You have to find a replacement if your caregiver is sick or on vacation.
- There’s no background check or drug screening unless you run them yourself.
- A private caregiver isn’t bonded, so you have no protection if they fail to do the work.
- A private caregiver isn’t covered by worker’s compensation.
- A private caregiver may not have formal training.
- Your family has to pay employers’ taxes when hiring a private caregiver.
- Your family has to alter your homeowner’s insurance to cover domestic help.
Pros for Hiring an Agency
- Replacement caregivers are available when you need them.
- An agency caregiver needs to pass a background check and drug screening.
- An agency caregiver is bonded, so you have protection if they fail to do the work.
- An agency caregiver is covered by worker’s compensation and general liability insurance.
- An agency caregiver must have formal training.
- All payroll and taxes are covered by the agency.
Read More: In-Home Care Benefits for Seniors
Cons for Hiring an Agency
- An agency caregiver will generally be more expensive than a private hire.
The Bottom Line on Choosing a Home Care Agency vs. Private Caregiver
After weighing up the advantages and disadvantages between a private caregiver and a home care agency, it all comes down to cost. A private caregiver might be the best option if an agency is outside your or your family member’s budget at this time.
But if you can afford to hire an agency to provide for your home care needs, you or your loved ones will be able to relax knowing that the professionals caring for you are vetted, trained, insured, and bonded.
You’ll be able to receive all the personal care and home health care you need worry-free.
