Things to Consider When Interviewing Caregivers

Choosing the right person to care for your loved one is one of the most important decisions in the caregiving journey. The success of a caregiving relationship is predicated not just on skill but also on trust and compatibility, and predicting rapport is not always possible. There are many aspects to consider when choosing a caregiver, and we will go over some of the most essential ones.

Methods of hiring caregivers

Many people choose agencies to provide caregivers for their loved ones, but some use online companies or hire someone recommended by a friend or family member. Here are the basic distinctions between methods:

• Agency: A reputable agency should offer background checks, liability insurance, drug screening, and a professional support system for your caregiving needs.
• Online companies: Online companies allow you to review resumes and interview caregivers. For an additional fee, some of these companies will provide payroll services and do background checks.
• Hiring privately: This method may be more affordable but lacks the protections agencies and online companies offer. You're responsible for all background checks, payroll management, and liability insurance.

What to look for and ask when choosing a caregiver

Here are some questions to ask when interviewing a potential caregiver:

• What is your training? Specifically, ask about emergency training such as CPR, dementia care, transferring, and other caregiving tasks.
• What is the extent of your experience working with older adults? Ask about the length of time and experience working with various medical conditions and dementia.
• Ask about background checks and a recent drug screening. If those haven't been done, state that they are a condition of employment, and that you will need proof.
• What are the qualities that make you a great caregiver?
• How do you handle combative or resistant behavior?
• How do you handle an emergency?
• Do you have reliable transportation?
• What do you charge per hour, and what is your availability? (If hiring through an agency, the agency will set those fees.)
• Are you comfortable with cooking and household duties such as housekeeping and laundry?
• Can you provide references from past clients?
• How do you prefer to communicate with the family about the client's condition and care?

The intangibles

You know your loved one's personality, habits, and preferences.

• Try to choose a caregiver who seems compatible with them and, if possible, arrange an in-person or virtual meeting.
• If hiring through an agency, you may have little choice of a caregiver but request an in-person meeting before making a final decision.
• Details such as appearance, cleanliness, demeanor, and communication style can be important.

Caregiving for your loved one

Caregiving is an intimate act, and respect, trust, and dignity are the foundations of compassionate care. Take your time, be methodical when choosing someone, and seek advice from professionals such as your loved one's physician or attorney. You may have to change caregivers midstream for any number of reasons, which is OK. Use your best judgment, and chances are you will make a successful decision.