Senior Companion Care contract template
A written care agreement protects both sides — it's the difference between a family clearly understanding what you will and won't do, and a dispute six months in over duties that crept beyond what was ever agreed.
Scope of care
Spell out exactly what's included: companionship, conversation, light housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, medication reminders (not administration, unless you're certified and it's legal in your state). List anything explicitly excluded, especially hands-on personal care tasks (bathing, toileting, transferring) if you're not certified or licensed for them.
Schedule and cancellation policy
State visit days/hours, your notice requirement for schedule changes, and any late-cancellation or no-show fee.
Emergency protocol and medical information
Collect emergency contacts, physician and pharmacy info, allergies/medications, and a clear instruction for what to do in a fall, medical emergency, or if the client becomes unresponsive — including whether you're authorized to call 911 without waiting for family sign-off.
Scope-of-practice boundary
State plainly that you don't perform medical tasks (injections, wound care, medication administration) unless licensed to do so — this protects both you and the family from a liability gap neither of you wants.
Confidentiality
Commit to keeping the client's health condition, finances, and family matters private — trust is the product in this line of work, and stating it in writing matters to families evaluating a stranger.
Payment terms and termination
Specify hourly rate, any overnight/live-in flat rate, payment method and schedule, and the notice period either side needs to give to end the arrangement.
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Consider having a local attorney review your final agreement.