Whether you’re looking for a professional or personal caregiver, there are steps you can take to find the right fit. These steps include identifying your needs, developing an interview process and choosing the best hiring options for you.
Identify Your Needs
Caregivers are available to provide a range of nonmedical assistance, including companionship and support for activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing and dressing. Many caregivers also have additional skills, such as providing care for children with special needs or assisting those with dementia.
Consider Your Needs
You may need help with transportation, housekeeping, meal preparation and other tasks around the home. You’ll want to discuss these issues with your older adult so that you can determine their level of need and how much help they need.
Create a Job Description
It’s important to clearly define your loved one’s needs before attempting to find someone to fill them. This will help you to determine what type of care your elderly loved one requires and whether an agency or a private caregiver is the most appropriate option for their needs.
Ask for a Reference
It can be helpful to have a few references when attempting to hire a home care worker or a caregiver. These can be in the form of a former employer, a family member or a friend. They should be able to give you an honest assessment of the applicant’s experience, compassion and reliability.
Review the References
Once you’ve gathered a list of references, it’s time to begin the screening and interview process. This can be done over the phone or in person. You should ask a series of questions to evaluate the potential candidate’s ability to provide reliable and compassionate care for your elderly relative, including their experience working with people who are aging, deaf or have a disability.
Get a Reference From Your Doctor
If your aging parent is currently undergoing medical treatment, you should speak with their physician to find out if they have any recommendations for home care providers or home health aides in the area. This can help you find a reliable caregiver who can provide quality care for your aging parent, while minimizing any stress for yourself and other family members.
Reach Out to Local Community Groups and Events
Another great way to find a caregiver is by contacting local community groups, such as senior centers, faith communities, Area Agencies on Aging and senior service agencies. These organizations can often connect you with referral sources, put the word out that you are seeking a caregiver and even hold job fairs or other community events.
Social Media Recruitment Platforms
If you’re looking for a personal or companion caregiver, try using social media platforms to post your job opening. These can be free to advertise and are a great way to attract qualified candidates.
Search Local Classified Ads
If your aging loved one is unable to drive, you can use classified ads and local newspapers to find home care workers in your area. You can also post your job opening on a website like Craigslist or Indeed to increase your chances of finding qualified candidates.