Another year, another page in the history of caregiver registry work. And many more to go! After talking with our customers, other staff members, and important industry stakeholders, we put together the top predictions we expect to see in 2025.
Are there any that we missed?
In summary, we predict:
- Shifting workforce dynamics
- Increased demand for caregiver independence
- Increased scrutiny around labor classification and compliance
Shifting workforce dynamics
Employees and independent contractors alike seek more independence in their work-life balance as well as their ability to make more money. Many employees have multiple jobs, seeking side hustles and gig work to help them reach certain financial goals, reach financial stability, and maintain passive income opportunities.
This creates a new dynamic where caregivers (and other workers) have more opportunity and choice.
Caregivers are looking for new, unconventional careers that give them uncapped earning potential. You can seize these opportunities by enticing workers with the unique business model that you and your team members operate.
Increased demand for caregiver independence
This isn’t new, but we will continue to see more of this as the years go on. The most common reasons that caregivers cite for leaving W2 home care opportunities are because of scheduling, pay, and communication, three factors that caregivers are in control of in a caregiver registry (1099) environment.
Caregiver registries have to capitalize on this unique opportunity in order to stay competitive, not only from other registries, from private/direct hire models, home care agencies, and senior living.
The demand for caregiver independence also stems from the client side of the equation as well. As care costs continue to rise, sources say the average cost for home care services is $30 an hour.
Caregiver registries offer a unique opportunity to work directly with a vetted caregiver while they negotiate costs/rates, schedules, and how the relationship will work between them. This also helps them to be able to conserve costs and closely monitor how much they spend on a regular basis.
Increased scrutiny around labor classification and compliance
The home care industry has been under strict scrutiny over the last few years by labor lawsuits, especially for wage-hour violations. This makes it increasingly important to ensure that all documentation and reporting is accurate and kept on file in the event of an audit.
In addition, registry owners have to remain vigilant and closely monitor the news as new pieces of legislation are proposed and approved. Putting best practices into action and understanding what’s at stake are key to helping your registry remain nimble and flexible despite a potentially uncertain regulatory environment.
The home care agency side of the fence continues to face new regulation, including state-based registration/certification standards to remain in business. Maine is a new example.
This creates an opportunity for registries—where applicable—to create meaningful care matches in areas where agencies may have challenges staying in operation with those new changes in place.
Stay ahead of the curve with these trends in mind.
2024 was filled with numerous regulatory changes and updates like the Final Independent Contractor Rule and more.
We anticipate 2025 to be full of new, innovative, and exciting changes as well, including continued shifts in our workforce, how caregivers work, and how registries are held accountable.
What changes do you plan to make in your business to stay ahead of competitors while continuing to build relationships with new clients and referral sources?
