Engaging a Caregiver can be an overwhelming decision. You want to make the very best decision. We encourage you to use the tools below prior to selecting a Caregiver, to help guide you as you make your choice.

Section 1. How to Engage a Caregiver ~ Prior to contacting any Agencies, spend some time considering the following:

• Write your own job description of care priorities.
• Check legal, financial and insurance issues.
• How long have they been in business?
• What are the credentials of the owner/operators?
• Are criminal background checks performed?
• What fees are involved? Is a sliding scale available? What do they cover?
• How do you pay? Can you obtain a full statement of expenses for your records?
• How will you be billed? By the hour, week or month?
• How fast can a Caregiver be referred to my loved one?
• Who designs the dates and times needed? Are there any minimums?
• If needed, can you request a Registered Nurse to oversee the care?
• Can you upgrade the level of skills needed within the same day?
• How does the Agency handle complaints?
• Who can you call if the caregiver doesn’t come to work?
• Can the Agency find a relief replacement when requested?
• How do you protect client confidentiality?
• Do you have any special requests?
• Are there any particular lifestyle needs you wish to identify?
• Are there pets involved?
• Are there other family members involved? How?

Section 2: Items Relating to a Caregiver

• Is the Caregiver responsive to your questions?
• Is the Caregiver listening to your verbal directions?
• Can they follow directions?
• Are they professional in their language and attitude?
• Are they compassionate?
• Have the Caregiver provide a brief description of their background.
• Does your loved one have a say in interviewing the caregiver?
• What are the reasons the Caregiver chooses this line of work?
• What do you like about home care?
• What do you find is the most difficult part of working in home care?