How To Find Home Care for Alzheimer's Patients

WESTPORT, Conn., July 13, 2006 – There are four basic ways to hire quality caregivers for a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease or dementia: 1) through a home health care agency; 2) through an employment or placement agency; 3) work/life programs; or 4) on your own.

		Home health care agencies place medical professionals (such as home health aides, certified nurses' aides, respite caregivers, therapists and registered nurses) on a part- or full-time basis. These professionals are usually bonded and insured, and supervised by a registered nurse (where applicable). Home health care agencies are state-licensed and serve as the employer, handling all compensation and tax matters on behalf of their medical professionals.
		Employment/placement agencies offer placement services for adult care professionals but, unlike home health care agencies, these professionals are not typically supervised by registered nurses. Additionally, an employment agency usually requires you to become the “employer” of the caregiver—meaning you are responsible for adhering to employment laws and regulations, including state and federal tax obligations.
		Work/life programs (sometimes known as resource and referral programs) are provided to many individuals through their employers. These programs can help you better understand your options and locate affordable, reliable care in your area.
		Hiring a caregiver on your own is also an option. Contact your local hospital, the Alzheimer's Association, senior centers or religious centers for information and referrals, or place an advertisement for a caregiver in your local paper. Carefully interview and screen all candidates, and consider conducting background checks on the finalists. (Some background-checking agencies may be able to help for a fee.) Keep in mind that if you hire a caregiver on your own, you will be responsible for adhering to employment laws and regulations, including state and federal tax obligations.

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Media contact: Michael Civiello
LifeCare, Inc.
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203-291-4170