Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in West Virginia?

Family members can get paid for caregiving in West Virginia through the Personal Options self-directed part of the Aged and Disabled Waiver program. While a spouse can’t be a paid caregiver, other family members can fill that role if they meet certain requirements. Seniors applying for the program must also prove their eligibility for this in-home care option.

The Aged and Disabled Waiver program requires that West Virginia seniors adhere to monthly income limitations. They must also live at home and not in a nursing home. Further, seniors must prove they need help with at least five of their daily functions. They might, for instance, need assistance in bathing, dressing, eating or walking.

When seniors are accepted into the program, they must select the Personal Options service to hire a family member as a caregiver. Seniors then serve as employers for the caregivers they hire, keeping track of scheduling, required tasks and the like. A Resource Consultant helps seniors create a service and monthly spending plan and guides hiring, training and management. The Fiscal/Employer Agent helps seniors take care of payroll requirements, time sheets and taxes.

A family member hired as a caregiver through the Personal Options section of the West Virginia Aged and Disabled Waiver program must receive a proper level of training in caregiving and agree to a background check. Family caregivers must also agree to an hourly wage and work schedule that’s in line with the amount provided through the waiver.

With these requirements in place, family caregivers can provide many services for their loved ones. They can take care of household chores, such as cleaning, laundry, shopping and meal planning and preparation. They can transport loved ones going on errands and attending appointments. Caregivers offer assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, grooming, dressing and toileting. They help with eating as needed and assist with mobility and walking. They may also set up emergency response systems for their loved ones. This caregiver position, however, isn’t a medical assistant job, so caregivers can’t provide medical services. They must also agree to a set service plan and receive regularly scheduled assessments.