The benefits of entering into a caregiver agreement
Many seniors have caregivers who provide their skills and care on a daily basis. Whether the caregiver is a family member, friend, or professional, it is a good idea to create a caregiver agreement.
A caregiver agreement should include the services and hours that the caregiver is expected to provide, the needs and wishes of the senior, and compensation for the work. It should also include in writing the frequency of services, the location where services are to be provided, and important dates such as when the care begins and how long the agreement is to be in effect.
The advantages of setting up a caregiver agreement are manifold:
- It can reduce or avoid Medicaid penalties
- It prevents confusion with private duty domestic service workers and/or family members and sets up a clear method of compensation so there is no misunderstanding
- It recognizes the time and effort of those taking care of you
- It offers security and peace of mind
- It makes expectations clear
If you are employing caregivers, companions, or other domestic service workers, contact an attorney at Bach & Jacobs, P.A. to discuss how you can help minimize risk and liability by creating a caregiving agreement. This is especially necessary if you are employing private duty caregivers directly rather than through an agency.
