Assisting Hands Home Care Libertyville

The most appropriate answer to this question is that it depends and not in a vague, unhelpful way. It truly comes down to your loved one’s needs and the kind of care that will help them feel safe and supported at home. Most families here in Libertyville, IL can expect rates to fall somewhere between $28 to $55 an hour when working with a licensed, insured, and reputable non-medical home care agency. But there’s a story behind that number.

If your parent just needs some help around the house, a little companionship, or reminders to take their medication, the cost may fall on the lower end. But if they need hands-on support bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, or if they’re recovering from surgery or bedbound the care becomes more involved, and that’s reflected in the rate.

Shorter shifts can sometimes cost more per hour simply because it’s harder to staff them with experienced caregivers. And of course, the more hours you need each week, the more that shapes the overall plan. Here’s what really matters: don’t just look for the cheapest option. Look for an agency that’s licensed, insured, and invests in their caregivers background checks, proper supervision, real training. That’s the difference between someone simply “showing up” and someone who’s truly showing care.

If you’re trying to figure out what’s best for your family, most trusted agencies in Libertyville, IL offer a free in-home consultation. It’s a no-pressure way to talk things through, get a feel for your options, and build a care plan that makes sense both for your parent and your peace of mind.

Family caregivers – Family members or friends who voluntarily care for loved ones at home without pay 

Professional caregivers – Certified professionals hired publicly or privately to help with daily tasks or medical requirements 

Independent caregivers – Caregivers who work on a freelance basis directly for the family and aren’t employed by an agency 

Volunteer caregiver – Person who provides care to someone without pay, such as through a religious or community organization 

Private caregivers are typically paid directly by the client or client’s family through cash, check, or bank transfer. It’s not uncommon for families to hire a household payroll service to make sure everything is handled legally and professionally. This is something that can help with taxes, withholdings, and employment records. It’s also essential to have a written agreement that details the caregiver’s responsibilities, work schedule, wage (or salary), and the terms of employment. This can protect both the client and caregiver by establishing clear parameters.

Caregiver – This term generally defines an individual (usually a family member or hired worker) who performs personal, nonmedical assistance like bathing, dressing, cooking, or simply companionship. Caregivers may be paid or unpaid. 

Care provider – This is more general and typically denotes professional care and can sometimes include medical care. Doctors, nurses, therapists, or agencies providing home health or elder care fall under this description. 

In short, a caregiver provides daily personal assistance, and a care provider may consist of medical professionals or institutions providing professional care services. 

Caregivers assist those in need because of age, illness, or disability. Common tasks they assist with include: 

Personal care – Assisting with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and hygiene 

Meal preparation – Preparing healthy meals and helping with feeding if necessary 

Medication management – Reminding to take medications on schedule 

Housekeeping – Light housekeeping, laundry, and ensuring a safe living situation 

Transportation – Driving to appointments, errands, or social events 

Companionship – Offering emotional support, conversation, and interaction 

Monitoring health – Checking for changes in physical or mental wellbeing and informing family or healthcare professionals 

Caregivers are present to assist with activities of daily living, but there are some duties they cannot perform legally or professionally, particularly without certification or training. Some of these include: 

• Providing medical treatments (such as injections, wound dressing, or IVs) 

• Dispensing prescription medication (unless specially trained or licensed) 

• Making medical decisions or providing medical advice 

• Operating sophisticated medical equipment without training 

• Providing physical therapy unless certified 

When introducing yourself as a caregiver, be warm, respectful, and clear about your role. Start with your name, your caregiving experience, and how you’re here to help. For example: “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m your caregiver. I’ve been providing home care services for [X] years, and I’m here to support you with daily tasks, personal care, and companionship. Please let me know how I can make you comfortable.” A kind, confident introduction builds trust and comfort from the start. 

Caregivers look after people who need extra help in their daily lives. This can include elderly individuals, those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or people recovering from surgery or injury. They provide support to make sure their clients are safe, comfortable, and well–cared for. 

A caregiver is an individual who assists people with daily care such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and companionship. Caregivers can be family members, privately hired individuals, or employed through an agency, and they may or may not receive formal training. 

An aide, like a home health aide or nursing aide, is a trained individual who provides comparable assistance but can also help with simple healthcare activities like taking vital signs or assisting with mobility, frequently under the direction of a nurse. 

In short, a caregiver can be informal or untrained, and an aide is professionally trained and can carry out basic medical procedures.