Should I give the current agency notice that I may be changing, or wait until it's all set up with the new provider? How much notice is fair?
I'm not unhappy with the current aide, but I've found another agency which has a lower cost by $140 a week, so a substantial savings for my parents. The current aide has been with my parents every weekend for 2 years now. She isn't spectacular (does the minimum, nothing extra), but she does always show up and hasn't stolen, broken or abused. I want to be fair to her and plan to give her a antique lamp she's admired and a cash bonus. Any suggestions on how much?
I agree with Eyerishlass about the gift giving; some agencies may prohibit it.
(I think it's a nice gesture to give the lamp to your current aide but check with her agency first. She may not be allowed to accept any type of gift or cash bonus from clients).