10 questions to ask when choosing a caregiver

The right caregiver is not just experienced; they fit your loved one’s personality and needs. Go into the interview with these 10 questions:

• 1. Have you worked with a similar situation before (dementia, post-stroke, bedridden care...)?
• 2. Tell me about a difficult care moment — what did you do?
• 3. In an emergency (a fall, loss of consciousness), what are your first three steps?
• 4. How do you handle medication tracking?
• 5. Who are the last two families you can give as references?
• 6. Which hours and days can you work; what is your backup arrangement?
• 7. What do you take on around meals, hygiene and housekeeping?
• 8. Will you make time for activities my loved one enjoys (walks, conversation, crafts)?
• 9. How do you communicate with the family — daily summaries, photos, calls?
• 10. What are your rate expectations and contract terms?

Reference checks and the trial period

Always call references and ask concrete questions: "What were you most pleased with? Would you work with them again?" Plan a short trial for the first week, and make sure a family member is at home during the first days.