Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing in home care your peace of mind is essential when making a decision about care for a loved one. Here are some recommended questions or any company or individuals you are considering to provide care giving services.
For you convenience we have included Sitters and More answers to these questions.
1. How long has the agency been in business and who owns the company?
Sitters and More, Inc has been providing care to clients since 1999. We are locally owned and operated by Betty Peevyhouse and Sherry Gregory; both are RN's who have extensive home care background. Sitters and More, Inc is a licensed Personal Assistance Services agency, and is committed to operate according to the highest ethical standards.
2. How is the caregiver staff screened and managed?
We do criminal background checks; nurse aide registry traces (where applicable) and employee misconduct registry traces on each applicant. Everyone goes through a thorough personal interview. Records are retained with the caregiver employment application, resume, reference checks and work history verification. Of major importance is that caregivers demonstrate a heart for care giving, compassion, and empathy for the client they will serve.
3. Does the company with hold employment taxes and worker compensation or will the client be responsible?
All caregivers are employees of Sitters and More and we file all applicable federal and state taxes as well as worker compensation. Many agencies and registries treat their caregivers as contract labor which puts the burden of paying payroll taxes and filing paperwork on the shoulders of the client. When hiring individuals as caregivers, the client takes on the "employer" designation and is also responsible for taxes and paperwork.
4. Are there any other advantages to using a licensed agency rather than hiring a caregiver directly?
In addition to the agency services mentioned in the previous answers, accountability and supervision are key advantages to using a licensed agency. While there are some wonderful independent caregivers, and agency provides the security of a qualified back up staff in case a caregiver experiences a personal emergency, sickness or family problem. An agency also acts as a "buffer" between the client and caregiver. We handle any unpleasant chore or problem without disrupting the care of the client.
A licensed agency:
- Schedules caregivers according to the wishes of the client
- Keeps close track of hours worked
- Is accountable for the services provided
- Supervises caregivers in their job duties
- Provides on the job training when needed
- Pays federal and social security taxes and worker compensation, taking this task off the shoulders of the client and their family.
What care can I expect and how do I set it up?
Our personal assistants can help with bathing, dressing, grooming meal preparations; assist with feeding, light housekeeping and running errands.
