Hiring caregiving help is a major decision that can directly affect a loved one’s safety, comfort, and quality of life. Whether you plan to hire independently or work with an agency, taking time to cover the basics and ask the right questions can help prevent problems and ensure a good fit.
Covering the bases before you hire
Before interviewing candidates or contacting agencies, prepare a clear list of questions and a written job description. This helps set expectations upfront and reduces misunderstandings later, such as “I didn’t know that was part of the job.”
Be clear about:
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The type of care needed
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Your expectations and priorities
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Work hours and schedule
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Pay rate and time-off policies
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How communication with family members should work
Clarity at the start makes the hiring process smoother and more effective.
Hiring caregiving help on your own
When hiring a caregiver independently, you are responsible for screening and vetting candidates.
What to ask and review
Ask candidates to provide:
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A work history with dates, duties, and contact information
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At least two professional references
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Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or photo ID
Let candidates know you plan to conduct a background check. Your local police department or an online service can help explain how to proceed.
When possible, include your family member in the interview process.
Interview questions to ask caregivers
During interviews, ask about:
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Experience caring for seniors with dementia or personal care needs
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Comfort level with mental health or cognitive challenges
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Special training, such as CPR or dementia care
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Reasons for leaving previous caregiving roles
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Availability, including weekends, holidays, and time off
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Other jobs or commitments that may affect scheduling
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Why they want to work in caregiving and what they expect from the role
Also ask whether they are open to a short trial period, if that is something you want to consider.
Be sure they are comfortable with any specific needs your loved one may have, such as dietary restrictions, language preferences, mobility limitations, or cognitive concerns.
Using an employment agency to hire caregiving help
Working with an agency can reduce your workload, but it is often more expensive. Asking the right questions will help you understand exactly what you are paying for.
Questions to ask an agency
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Is there a minimum number of hours per shift?
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What is the total weekly cost of care?
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How are caregivers vetted and background-checked?
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Is drug testing conducted?
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Are driving records checked if transportation is required?
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What training do caregivers receive?
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Who supervises the caregiver and how is performance monitored?
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How does the caregiver communicate with the agency and with your family?
Care plans, oversight, and employment details
Ask whether the agency:
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Provides a free needs assessment
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Uses a nurse to conduct assessments
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Creates a customized care plan
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Updates the care plan as needs change
It is also important to understand the agency’s employment structure:
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Are caregivers employees or independent contractors?
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Are workers bonded?
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Does the agency carry workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance?
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Is the agency Medicare certified?
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Does the agency handle payroll and tax paperwork?
If your parent has long-term care insurance, confirm whether the agency accepts payment from the insurance provider.
Backup coverage and conflict resolution
Caregiving arrangements should include contingency planning. Ask:
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What happens if a caregiver is sick or unavailable?
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Will the agency provide a replacement?
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How are conflicts between caregivers and families handled?
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What is included in the service agreement?
Request references from clients with similar care needs to gain insight into the agency’s reliability and responsiveness.
Hiring caregiving help requires careful planning and thorough screening. By asking detailed questions, setting clear expectations, and understanding your options, families can make confident decisions that support consistent, high-quality care.
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for when hiring a caregiver?
Look for relevant experience, proper training, strong references, and comfort with your loved one’s specific care needs.
Is it better to hire a caregiver privately or through an agency?
Hiring privately offers more control and may cost less, while agencies handle screening, supervision, and payroll but are typically more expensive.
Should I run a background check on a caregiver?
Yes. Background checks are essential to ensure safety and peace of mind, whether you hire independently or through an agency.
What questions should I ask a home care agency?
Ask about caregiver screening, training, supervision, costs, care plans, replacement coverage, and how conflicts are handled.
