Things You'll Need:
- Time to interview potential candidates
- A list of questions to ask each candidate
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Step 1
Talk to your loved one about expectations they have for the caregiver. You may pick a great caregiver, but if your loved one is not on the same page, they can fire the caregiver or refuse them entry into their home. Be sure to include the senior in the process.
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Step 2
Look for local home health agencies in your area. Talk to them about your "must haves" for any caregiver candidate. This may include speaking English fluently, as well as your loved one's second language, or hours they would need to work.
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Step 3
Use networking sites such as craigslist.com to post an ad soliciting caregivers. Include in your ad your expectations and preferences.
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Step 4
Interview, interview, interview! This relationship is an important one and needs to be established immediately. Have an established list of questions that you ask each candidate. Base your questions upon interests of the senior, routines of the senior, and expectations of the family.
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Step 5
Ask for references and follow up. Call or visit the references provided by the caregiver. If they only offer one reference, ask them for additional people you can contact about their character and experience.
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Step 6
Have a trial visit. If you have your candidates narrowed down to one or two, take the time to have a trial visit. Invite the candidate to the senior's home, serve small refreshments, and watch the interaction. Excellent caregivers will be not only caring, but also will talk directly to the senior, encourage conversation, and maintain independence. If you don't like the way the candidate interacts with your loved one, don't hire them. After the visit, ask the senior for their opinion.
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Step 7
Be honest. If your loved one has difficult routines or behaviors, let the caregiver know during the interview process and inquire how they would handle that situation.
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Step 8
Check in often on the caregiver during the first few months. Stop in randomly to visit with your loved one to catch the caregiver in action. Have very open communication with the caregiver and be open about your preferences and expectations.
