I've learned something this past week. Don't pay people that you've used from an agency more $$ or off the books because it and most important THEY will not work out. This is the 2nd time I've discovered this fact from 2 different agencies. We get them from the agency -- they work out great and then let us know that they are willing to work as a free lance (SSH, don't let the agency know -- that they ALL do this) . You think great, mom loves them, the paid help will get more $$ in their pockets -- all good right. WRONG. As soon as they become free lancers, they think THEY are the boss and don't follow instructions, take over your TV, feed your mom junk food so she gets constipated and act like they should be paid good $$ for this. Sometimes they have the nerve to not even treat your mom with the respect she deserves which is an even bigger insult. SInce you can't complain to the boss -- you the payer are screwed. Advice to the wise: Only use people through the agency. Seems they are on their better behavior then because they know you can complain to a higher up. The help may get less $$ in their pockets through the agency but from my experience -- the more $$ doesn't seem to make them "better". Strange but true. You thinkit would be opposite but people are people.
Ps when you hire from care.com or other places online they do a free background check.
Hiring an independent ("free lance") caregiver who is in business for herself and set up to operate that way is NOT the same as working with someone who is willing to cheat their employer and the government.
I am not a caregiver but I am a consultant. I have worked through an agency (which I am doing now) and I have also worked independently. My work ethics and my integrity are exactly the same either way. I am good at what I do and my clients get full value from my services, whether they pay the agency or pay me directly. But when I have worked independently it was all above-board. No cheating on taxes. Nothing behind-the-backs of an agency. No under-the-table payments.
I agree with hessaw. Whether you use an agency or an independant care provider, you are responsible for monitoring the level of care.
RLP, I would not discourage you from hiring an independent contractor.
I'm just cautioning against dealing with someone willing to be unethical in her work practices.
There are plenty of independent caregivers wtih impeccable work ethics and integrity. But I wouldn't necessarily expect to find those characteristics among caregivers who pull shady deals behind their employers' backs.
Why do caregivers always get a bad review? I mostly hear on this forum negativity. Get to know your caregiver, talk to them what borders you.
A very devoted and proud caregiver