Has anyone hired young (18-24yo) family members to watch family member that can't be left alone?

So sorry for your loss.

Update...Thanks to all that replied to my question, I got some answers we needed. My SIL, is on a pain pump with Dilaudid, so she is pretty much sedated all day. We learned quickly that younger family caretakers would not work well. It is hard to see family members go downhill so quickly, and once what was Auntie, is now a person we don't know. I very much enjoy reading the questions presented, and the well thought out answers.

Again, Thanks to you all

No, I would not hire an 18 to 25 year old to watch this woman without some experience. Why, I find very few 18 year olds mature enough to do something like this. Babysitting is nothing like caregiving. Will this be 24/7?

If this woman needs 24/7 care at $15 an hour thats over 10k a month. You may as well find a nice AL. Then she is safe and no worries. Let her money run out and then place her in LTC with Medicaid footing most of the bill.

Aside from the payment question, I am hoping your family is realistic about how this young relative can handle her behaviors, since they haven't much life experiences and therefore, have less common sense and pool of knowledge from which to draw. I suggest this young CG be given a primer of what to expect and what to do in worst-case scenarios, who to call, what constitutes a 911 emergency, etc. otherwise it may be scary for them or overwhelm them, especially since it is a LO they know. I am in favor of employing this young CG. Aside from the valuable life skills it will teach them, they will gain emotional stamina as well. I also think it is something worthwhile for their resume. I did the same with my 3 sons when we needed all hands on deck to help when both my in-laws were in elder failure simultaneously. I wish your family all the best, especially your sister. Peace to all of you!

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Agree with do not pay under the table.  Also, check into younger person being able to set up IRA, tax cost may be minimal.

No don't do it under the table. If Medicaid s needed within five years the amount paid to the kids will be considered a gift and will be a penalty from Medicaid, dollar for dollar where SIL will not be eligible for Medicaid.