Living in one’s own home or apartment is the goal of many older adults. However, routine chores, meal preparation and general upkeep can become a burden. Individuals who hire help on a daily basis, or are considering “live in” assistance, should take precautions before allowing anyone access to the home or personal property. The exchange of room and board for services rendered may not be a good idea. Actual payment for services establishes the business relationship from the onset, leaves less room for misunderstandings and allows for easier termination of an arrangement that may be difficult to dissolve otherwise. The Colorado legislature has made it a crime punishable by fines and jail time to physically, sexually, financially or mentally abuse an elder age 70 and over. To report elder abuse, call the local police.
Use the following checklist before allowing anyone access to your home or personal belongings.
| Checklist for Selecting Caregiver | Yes | No |
| 1. Did you feel comfortable with the person when you first visited? | ||
| 2. Did the interviewer answer your questions frankly and willingly offer additional information? | ||
| 3. Does the person have experience performing the duties you will require? | ||
| 4. Is the person bonded – and if not, can they be? | ||
| 5. If the duties require anything other than completion of menial tasks, or if they will be expected to assist you with personal care, are they licensed or registered and do they have the appropriate license(s) that are current with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies? | ||
| 6. If you have a long term care insurance policy, does this person meet the qualifications specified for the type of services they will be performing? | ||
| 7. If you expect the individual to run errands or escort you in a vehicle did you : • Ask to see their current driver’s license? | ||
| • Confirm that they have liability insurance? | ||
| • Check the driving record with the Department of Motor Vehicles? (your own insurance agent may be able to assist you with this search) | ||
| 8. Has the agency conducted a CBI and/or fingerprint check for a criminal background check that is available upon request? | ||
| 9. Has the person provided at least three references from prior employers? | ||
| 10. Have you contacted each reference and inquired about their behavior and temperament as well as their work performance? |
If you hire someone privately, a direct employer of household help must withhold 6.65% of wages for Social Security and Medicare tax, and pay another 6.65% in matching funds. You may also be responsible for other payroll taxes such as workman’s compensation, unemployment tax and other municipal taxes, if the individual is hired as a contract employee.