Choosing a home care aide

Interviewing and choosing a home care aide can be overwhelming—where do you start? How do you know the person will be the right fit for you?

You and the aide should know what to expect. Depending on type of service, you should discuss the job description and expectations, days and hours, and (if you choose the placement agency) wages.

When you have an interview arranged, get to know the person. Consider:

• Have they had experience in the specific tasks or needs you have?
• How long have they been a home care aide?
• Are they too chatty? Too quiet?
• Do you feel like you would be able to communicate well with the person?
• Do they drive?
• Do they smoke? Do you?
• Do you feel they will respect your independence and preferences?
• Do you like them and want to spend time with them regularly? This may seem like a silly question, but if someone rubs you the wrong way, they simply may not be the right person for you to work with!

Do you have someone to help you decide? Having a second person interview aides can be helpful. Is there a neighbor, friend or family member to help you identify the right person?