Caring for a loved one with a disability often requires compassion and resilience, but becoming a caregiver is a meaningful way to walk alongside someone you care about and help them feel loved. Stepping into this role, however, especially for a family member or friend, can feel like a complicated process.
Keep reading for insight on what it means to become a family caregiver, and steps to help answer your questions if you’re just getting started.
The Role of a Caregiver
If a friend or loved one lives with a disability and needs help with daily activities, they may be eligible for home health care. A caregiver’s role will vary depending on the needs of their loved one, but may include responsibilities such as:
- Assisting with mobility
- Bathing and other personal hygiene needs
- Communicating with medical staff
- Dressing
- Feeding
- Giving medications
- Grocery shopping
- Housework
- Preparing meals
- Transportation
Whether you’re helping with daily tasks or navigating complex medical needs, becoming a caregiver is a profound act of love. However, depending on the level of care a person needs, being a family caregiver can become overwhelming. At times, it may even take a toll on your own health. If you’re considering stepping into this role, it’s important to care for yourself as well.
How to Become a Caregiver for a Family Member
Becoming a family caregiver is often an unpaid commitment. However, some programs do allow family members to be paid caregivers, though there are often strict regulations. The most common first step to becoming a family caregiver is determining whether your loved one is eligible for caregiver benefits through a program such as Medicaid or the Veterans Administration (VA).
The rules and requirements for becoming a family caregiver vary by state and by program, but, for starters, general guidelines are based on:
- Age: You must be a legal adult (18 or older), though some agencies may prefer caregivers over 21
- Background check: Caregivers must pass a comprehensive background check
- Education: A high school diploma or GED certificate is often required, regardless of whether the caregiver position is paid or unpaid
- Training: Certain programs require that caregivers complete training or a certification program before approval
If you’re caring for a family member who is neither a veteran nor eligible for Medicaid benefits, other possible options to consider include paid family leave (available in some states) or whether your loved one has a long-term care insurance policy that allows family members to act as caregivers.
Compensation for Family Caregiving
Compensation may vary significantly, but factors that can influence family caregiver rates include:
- Level of care needed: If your loved one requires more complex medical or daily living needs, you may receive a higher rate
- Location: Pay may vary due to the cost of living
- Qualifications: Caregivers who’ve completed training programs or certifications may earn more than caregivers who have not received training
- Type of caregiving program: Rates may vary depending on whether the caregiver is compensated through private insurance, Medicaid, the VA or another avenue
You can look into national and state government assistance programs offering funding for family caregivers, such as the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) or the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. We also recommend talking to a tax expert for personalized advice on your potential eligibility for tax credits or exemptions.
When it comes to being a family caregiver, learning whether you can be compensated for your work isn’t always a straightforward answer. However, understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations as you explore your caregiving options and help you advocate for the support your loved one deserves.
Supporting You as You Support Others
We believe that caregiving is more than a role — it’s a reflection of love, commitment and care. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or have been caring for a loved one for years, your well-being matters just as much as theirs. We’re here to help you prioritize your own health so you can, in turn, care for someone else’s. Find a doctor near you to take the first step today.
