How to Select an In-Home Aide
If your family is considering hiring a home aide, the first decision is what type of aide you need . . .
Read moreMost older Americans want to remain in their homes as long as possible. For growing numbers of elders – and concerned family members – this is only possible with the help of a home care aide. As we discuss in another article, there are two basic types of aides and two ways to engage one: either through an agency or hiring one yourself.
If you hire through an agency, use the questions you’ll find at Eldercare Locator to screen and vet the agency.
Local Elder Law Attorneys in Your City
Then, use the following questions to interview the candidates they suggest or those you have found on your own:
(Based on information from interviewees and How to Care for Aging Parents, pps. 155-161, and The Caregiver Helpbook, pps. 177-181.)
Two United Hospital Fund guides provide tips and strategies for a good interview and meeting the challenges that may come with employing a caregiver in the home, too. Click here and here.
Additional resources
AARP: Needs Assessment Checklists
Administration on Aging: How Do I Hire a Home Care Employee?
Family CaregiverAlliance: Hiring In-Home Help
National Institute on Aging: There’s No Place Like Home – For Growing Old
Mayo Clinic: Home Care Services: Questions to Ask
Veterans Administration: Aide and Attendant Benefit
ElderCare.gov: Where and How to Find Community Resources
Caring Connections: Caring for Someone
ElderCare 911: The Caregiver’s Complete Handbook for Making Decisions, S. Beerman, MS, MSW and J. Rappaport-Musson, CSA (2008, Prometheus Books)
If your family is considering hiring a home aide, the first decision is what type of aide you need . . .
Read moreMany seniors consider transferring assets for estate and long-term care planning purposes, or just to help out children and g...
Read morePublic and private agencies offer a variety of home care services that may be available to you.
Read moreMedicaid Rules, etc