When your loved one needs help, the first question you must ask yourself is, “How do I find a caregiver?” There are a number of options to choose from when you need care for an aging or disabled relative. You can use an agency, hire a private freelance caregiver or get a referral from a family member or friend.
Finding a Caregiver
The best way to find a caregiver is to be honest and transparent about what your loved one needs. This will help ensure that you find someone who is a good match for them.
Be clear about the type of care your loved one needs and how much time they need it, as well as the skills needed to provide that care. Some people need assistance with their basic daily needs, such as bathing, dressing, eating and medication monitoring, while others may need more specialized help, such as a nurse or physical therapist to provide home health care services.
Consider the Cost of Caring
When you hire a caregiver, you are committing to a long-term relationship that involves both sides. It is your responsibility to screen applicants, verify credentials and experience and handle essential paperwork such as taxes and insurance. Some states require that agencies insure their workers, which can add to your costs.
You also have the option of using an agency to find a caregiver, which will charge you a fee to screen and refer candidates. However, they are less likely to provide quality candidates than a private freelance caregiver or a referral from a friend.
There are many ways to find a caregiver, from friends and neighbors to online referrals or through social media platforms. You can also check your local government websites, as they often have publicly available registries of home health workers.
Community Resource Finder
The National Alliance for Caregiving and the Alzheimer’s Association offer a free website that connects families with local caregiving services, including adult day care, transportation and home health agencies. The website also offers tips for hiring a caregiver and provides resources for family caregivers.
Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator (see Resources list) is a partnership between the Family Caregiver Alliance and the Alzheimer’s Association, which includes an in-home care locator for seniors who need help living independently. It also provides information on caregiver programs and resources in your area, such as adult day care, home health care, and hospice care.
Hiring a Caregivers for the Right Reasons
A caregiver is a vital part of a senior’s life, and they need to be reliable, trustworthy, professional and competent. It is a good idea to interview a potential caregiver before you decide whether they are the right person for the job.
Your goal is to find a caregiver who will care for your loved one with dignity and respect, while at the same time making them feel comfortable with their new caretaker. This means fostering a trusting relationship by asking open and honest questions, and by listening to your care receiver’s input about the candidate. Caregivers agency