Independent Caregivers

At a Glance: Independent Caregivers

What they do: Everything from shopping and meal preparation to personal care and basic nursing care
Cost: Ranges from minimum wage to about $30 an hour, depending on location, services provided, and training (certified aides, who have more medical training, earn more)
Best for: Budget-conscious families who are willing to screen, hire, and manage workers -- including handling any paperwork required, such as filing state and federal payroll taxes.

Learn More: How to hire an in-home caregiver