How to Get a Check for Caring for Elderly Grandparents

Caring for an elderly relative can be difficult. The income and time of the caregiver may be adversely affected. Unfortunately, not many easy solutions exist that allow a relative to get paid for caring for older family members. Of course, if the elderly relative wishes to pay the caregiver, that is the easiest way to draw a check for this care. To find an agency or government fund that pays relatives to care for their grandparents is not an easy task.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to the elderly grandparent. Find out what their needs are and make a list of everything they need done for them. Determine how much time this will take daily and weekly. If the elderly relative can afford to pay for caregiving, ask them if they feel comfortable paying for this service. If they can and wish to then draw up a contract, outlining compensation and duties, so both parties know what to expect.

• 2

  Examine the benefits program of the elderly grandparent's former employer; they may be entitled to a caregiver. If they are, then the elderly person can apply for this program and name the relative as the caregiver.

• 3

  Consult Medicare or the private health insurance provider of the grandparent. They may provide funding for caregivers. They will likely need a doctor to examine the elderly grandparent to determine exactly what type of care is necessary. The process for approval may be time consuming and lengthy, but it could result in the caregiver being paid well to look after their grandparent.

• 4

  Consult the grandparent's accountant. There may be tax benefits for the elderly person if they have to pay for in-home care. The tax savings could then be passed on to the caregiving relative.

• 5

  Check local laws and agencies. Different communities have different programs set up to care for their elderly. Some local community groups, both public and private, may have funds, grants, or programs set up to assist the elderly for paying for in home care.