10 questions to ask before hiring a caregiver

A caregiver will spend hours in your home with someone you love, so a short conversation before the first visit is worth the time. Credentials tell you what a person is qualified to do. The questions below help you understand how they work and whether they suit your family.

Experience and skills

• What kind of clients have you cared for? Ask about age, mobility and conditions similar to your parent's.
• Which tasks are you comfortable with? Bathing, transfers, meal preparation and medication reminders each need different skills.
• Have you cared for someone with dementia, diabetes or limited mobility? Ask only about the conditions that apply to you.

How they work day to day

• How do you start with a new client? Good caregivers ask about routines, preferences and what a good day looks like.
• How will you keep us updated? Agree on a daily message, a notebook or a short call.
• What would you do if my parent fell or felt unwell? Listen for a calm, clear answer that includes contacting you.
• How do you handle a client who refuses help? Patience and respect matter more than a perfect script.

Practical arrangements

• Which days and hours are you available? Check that they can commit to the schedule you need.
• Who covers if you're sick? On a Care Nest plan, every caregiver has a named backup.
• Which languages do you speak? Being understood makes care feel safer for an older person.

After the interview

If you can, arrange a short first visit while a family member is at home. Read reviews from other families and check that the caregiver's credentials have been verified. Trust your instinct: the right person should leave both you and your parent feeling at ease.