Caring for a loved one who is chronically ill, disabled or elderly is a difficult job that cannot be done alone. Hiring respite care provides family members with a temporary break and can be provided in the home or outside of the home. While you may be eager to find someone who can take some burden off your shoulders, it’s important to take the time to find the right person for your peace of mind and your loved one’s safety.
Sometimes, choosing out-of-home care is simpler because the care takes place in a managed facility such as an adult daycare or hospital. Also, there are certain qualifications that the staff must have to work there; although you should still ask these questions to be certain. When choosing in-home respite care, the task to interview the caregiver will be up to you. If you don’t feel comfortable working with an independent provider, choose an agency.
Here are some of the best questions to ask the caregiver:
Are you insured?
Why are you interested in this job?
Why did you leave your past job?
What is your background?
What type of training and experience do you have?
Do you have references?
Do you have experience working with someone who had the same condition as my loved one?
Do you have any skills that will help you in this job?
How would you handle the following situation (have a few examples of situations that may
occur and ask what the person would do.)
Is there someone else who can provide care in the event that you’re unable to?
There are also questions you should ask the program manger. When a particular agency has high standards for their employees, you will see a higher quality of care. Plus, talking to the program manager now gives you insight as to how they will handle concerns in the future.
How are the caregivers evaluated?
Do you have minimum requirements/qualifications that your caregivers must meet?
What is the screening process for caregivers? Do you provide training?
Does the program provide transportation?
How much does care cost? Am I limited to certain hours?
Will you keep a written file on my loved one?
How do you train your staff to handle emergencies?
Who do I contact with questions and concerns?
Always trust your gut instinct. If you find that your questions have been answered appropriately, the caregiver seems warm and understanding and you’re not left with uncertainty, you can move ahead with respite care.
Blog post sponsored by Family Private Care, LLC