What’s Important to Consider Before Hiring In-Home Caregivers

In the Aging Life Care Association’s newest White Paper, “Agency or Independent: Considerations in Hiring”, ALCA member Bunni Dybnis examines the legal and financial questions one should examine before deciding to hire caregivers for the home. Below is an excerpt from the beginning of the White Paper; to read and download the entire document, please click here.

Agency or Independent: Considerations in Hiring
Bunni Dybnis, MA, LMFT, CMC, Aging Life Care Association Member
Fellow of the Leadership Academy

“For aging adults with physical and cognitive limitations who wish to remain in the familiar environment of their own home, paid in-home care workers often provide the solution. Understanding the differences in care providers and the roles and obligations of hiring are essential in creating a positive experience for all involved.

In-home caregivers can provide a wide range of assistance including personal care needs such as bathing, dressing, supervision, help with toileting, to medication reminders and assistance with daily living activities, such as meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and companionship. Those who are hiring paid workers to provide in-home care look for solutions from a variety of sources. Being responsible for the care of a dependent or older adult is a demanding job that often involves many tasks.

Choosing a full-service agency shifts the responsibility of care and liability away from the family and can provide respite from many of these demands. Primarily because of cost considerations many families seeking to hire in- home help will turn to private individuals rather than hiring through an agency. At first glance, this may seem reasonable; however, this can cause numerous problems and can create unexpected liabilities for the individual who becomes an employer. Understanding responsibilities and employer obligations is essential.”

White Papers are essays that have been written by Aging Life Care Association members on a variety of topics, including caregiver burnout and costs. These documents are free to access, read, download, and share; they are effective ways to educate and spread the word about the mission of the Aging Life Care Association and its professionals, who provide care management services across the country for a variety of clients. You can find the collection of White Papers here.


This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™ and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.