4 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an In-Home Caregiver
The Vetting Process: A Critical Operational Step
Inviting a stranger into your home to care for a vulnerable loved one is an exercise in trust, but it must be grounded in due diligence. The "modern ecosystem of in-home geriatric care" is vast, ranging from private individuals found on classified ads to accredited agencies. To ensure safety and "operational excellence," families must conduct a rigorous interview process.
The goal is not just to find someone who can perform tasks, but someone who understands the "psychosocial dynamics" of your specific situation—whether that is managing the "anosognosia" of a dementia patient or the physical rigidity of Parkinson's.
Core Questions for Competency and Safety
When interviewing an agency or a caregiver, look for specific, verifiable answers.
"How do you handle emergencies or sudden changes in condition?" What you want to hear: A clear protocol.
The caregiver should know when to call 911 versus when to call the family or a supervisor.
At Comfort Angels Home Care, our staff is trained to recognize the "first 72 hours" of a decline—such as a sudden change in mental status indicating a UTI—and act immediately.
"What is your experience with [Specific Condition]?"
What you want to hear: Specifics, not generalities. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s, the caregiver should be able to discuss strategies for "sundowning" or how they handle "retrieval deficits" without causing frustration.
"How do you handle a client who refuses care?"
What you want to hear: Strategies for de-escalation and dignity. A senior with dementia may refuse a shower due to fear or confusion. A skilled caregiver uses "environmental engineering"—warming the room, using towels for modesty, and gentle persuasion—rather than force.
"What acts of 'Physiological Maintenance' are included?"
What you want to hear: Clarity on the scope of practice. Can they cook for a diabetic diet? Can they ensure hydration? Do they understand fall prevention?
The Agency Advantage
One of the most critical questions is about backup. "What happens if the caregiver gets sick?"
The Private Hire Risk
If a private hire calls in sick, you are the backup plan.
The Comfort Angels Advantage
We provide a sophisticated infrastructure of support. If a primary caregiver is unavailable, we have a vetted, informed substitute ready to step in, ensuring there is no gap in care.
Assessing the "Soft Skills"
Finally, ask about the "intangibles." "How will you spend the time when you aren't providing direct physical care?"
The Ideal Answer
They should talk about engagement—playing cards, looking at photos, or simply conversing to prevent social isolation. Caregiving is about connection, not just surveillance.