An essential yet often overlooked family matter is the preparation for elderly care. As the seniors in our families advance in age, daily life can become a struggle, especially when medical conditions arise. Caregiving can be a source of burnout for many families, notably when members are busy with their own lives and responsibilities. Conflicts resulting from who is responsible for care may arise. These issues don’t have to be the case.
One of the best things that you can do for the elderly, ailing or not, is to assign or hire a caregiver. A designated caregiver can provide the utmost attention and assistance when other family members are not around.
Before hiring a relative or health professional, you must draw up a caregiver contract. With this document, the caregiver and family understand the expectations of care. There is little to no room for uncertainties or confusion.
What is a Caregiver Contract?
Sometimes called a personal care agreement, a caregiver contract is a written agreement listing services and responsibilities. The contract includes the following:
- The duration of care.
- Caregiver duties.
- Obligations of the family or hiring party.
- The location of the provided service.
- Financial details.
The service location also includes any medical appointments. A medical administration office where your senior receives regular health services is present on any location. The contract can then list any required trips to and from the facility.
The caregiver contract should also include all financial aspects related to caring for your family member. These aspects consist of the payment amount, form, and the person responsible for payments. If payment is attached to additional or optional tasks, the contract should cover that information as well. Determine whether the caregiver receives cash, check, or money transfer and the schedule for payments. There should also be a section where both parties can make amendments to the contract should there be a need for them in the future.
Why is a Caregiver Contract Important?
Since this is a binding written agreement, it provides a blanket of protection to all parties. It covers the receiver of care, the caregiver, and the family of the elderly. The agreement provides answers to any care questions and helps avoid conflicts in the future.
As a protection to the caregiver, the contract plainly indicates their tasks, work hours, and monetary compensation and or allowances. Caregivers can then avoid problems arising from work strains, overload, and underpayment issues. For the family, a caregiver contract gives them a framework that everyone can support in harmony. As such, the agreement must be discussed by everyone involved. Preferably, this discussion happens in a meeting where all parties thoroughly examine the details. Then, those present can sign the document before a licensed notary certifies it.
Updates and Revisions on Caregiver Contracts
Over time, the needs and services required by your aging family member may change. This can be due to medical issues, routine changes, family financial adjustments, or other reasons. As a result, the contract must be reviewed and updated every few months or annually. Periodically reviewing the document ensures that all details are up-to-date and still cover the receiver’s needs. Scheduling contract maintenance also allows the caregiver to bring up any developing concerns. Most importantly, this process provides peace of mind to the family. They know their family’s cherished member is receiving quality care and assistance.
Providing our seniors a quality life and, at the same time, fulfilling our adult responsibilities can be very challenging. Still, with the help of an assigned caregiver plus the protection of a caregiver contract, we can adequately care for our loved ones. Take this information and plan for the future with confidence and ease.