Grandparents are so much fun.
They spoil us and know all the best stories about our parents. Some can even run circles around us without breaking a sweat.
That’s why I’m happy to report that Americans are living longer than ever. The number of people in the U.S. aged 65 and older was 46.2 million in 2014 and is expected to climb to a whopping 98.2 million by 2060, according to the United States Census Bureau.
While it’s great that Gram and Gramps are going to be around a while longer, the rise in the senior population has led to a growing demand for non-medical assistants to help senior citizens manage the tasks of everyday life.
In fact, an entire industry has formed to meet this need and it’s something you’ll be hearing a lot more about in the coming years.
I’m talking about senior concierge services, or elder concierges as they’re sometimes called.
The Demand for Senior Concierge Services is Growing
Senior concierges are hired by families to drive seniors to doctor appointments and errands, assist with minor housework or simply just keep them company.
“It’s basically… mom and dad are getting older but they start needing a little bit of help,” explained Justin Lin, CEO of senior concierge service Envoy. “They’re not ready to hire a full-blown caregiver, they don’t need help getting dressed, they don’t need someone to come every day but they need a little support. And they need that personal touch and trust factor.”
The arrangement means senior citizens are less dependent on friends and family members, and concierges have an opportunity to make extra money. It’s a win-win.
Jill Kaplan, an elder concierge in Denver, Colorado told The New York Times she makes $25 to $40 per hour only working a few days a week.
Kaplan said it’s “very satisfying” and “more meaningful” than other side gig opportunities, like becoming a rideshare driver.
How To Become a Senior Concierge
Working for a senior concierge agency is a great way to connect with families looking for a little in-home help. AARP recommends checking the The International Concierge & Lifestyle Management Network database to see what companies are operating in your area
If you prefer to work as a freelance senior concierge, consider signing up with Care.com to be matched with families looking for an in-home care provider. (You’ll also get access to a variety of benefits!)
If you decide to branch out on your own instead of signing up with an agency or job matching service, make sure to file all the necessary paperwork to pay your federal, state and local taxes.
“If you’re paid under the table, you’re in violation of the law,” attorney Hyman G. Darling told AARP.
Lisa McGreevy is a staff writer at The Penny Hoarder. She loves telling readers about interesting or unusual jobs. Look her up on Twitter (@lisah) if you want to tell her about yours.
This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, one of the largest personal finance websites. We help millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. In 2016, Inc. 500 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the No. 1 fastest-growing private media company in the U.S.
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