The 4 Most Important Home Care Worker Hiring Questions

March 2, 2016

What duties are health care aids responsible for in the home?
Many seniors and special needs adults want to stay in their own home. For the family, this can have many benefits. Home care is usually done by a caregiver or a home care aid. These individuals usually have experience with caregiving, but are considered “non-clinical”.

When should you hire a health care aid?
When your family member needs help with everyday living activities like simple grooming, cooking, and light housekeeping. When you feel that your family member is alone and socially isolated too much, and would benefit from having a companion to speak with and do activities in the community. When your family member is no longer able to drive themselves to appointments or social events. 

How much will adult home care cost me?
When a home care aid is non-medical the costs are much less, than if the care has medical requirements. Often costs are determined by the area that you live in, the hours that are required, and the needs of the person being cared for. The hourly range starts at $11, and can be as high as $20. Asking the norm in your area is always recommended. Most of the time senior home care is paid privately by the family, but some insurance companies do assist with the cost.

What services does a home care worker provide?

  • Meal planning and assistance with cooking
  • Light housekeeping (usually not deep cleaning)
  • Assistance paying bills
  • Connecting to family members, both personally and through social media
  • Administering medications and supplements
  • Transportation to appointments and social events
  • Help dressing, grooming, and sometimes bathing

Before hiring a home care aid, prepare a job description. Remember that your family member’s health is likely going to get worse, rather than better. Complete a contract in advance with all needed duties and hours to ensure everything is agreed to in advance.

Need help finding home care workers in your area? No problem! Eldercare.com specializes in matching people with qualified home care. Search for home care workers here or Post your job so home care aids can come to you.

Looking for more interview help?
Here are some resources to help you with housekeeper interview questions, petsitter hiring tips, and an overview of what to think about when hiring a nanny or sitter.

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