If you’ve decided to hire a caregiver for a person with special needs, you’ll need to interview the candidates. Here are eleven important questions to ask:
Can you provide me with your full name, address, phone number, social security number and current photo ID so that I can run a background, including credit, check? (If interviewing an agency candidate, request contact information only.)
Can you (your agency) provide me with copies of current documentation related to personal insurance, bonding, workers’ compensation, and current health status (TB test, immunizations, etc.).
Can you (your agency) show or provide me with current documentation related to specific services and assistance (autism care, CPR, etc.) you are trained/certified to provide?
Tell me about your experience as an in-home aide how long you have been providing care, previous work situations, etc.
Can you (your agency) provide me with references related to past clients and employers.
Why did you leave your last position? (If they have not left this position, ask how they plan on coordinating schedules.)
What are your expectations if I hire you?
What hours and days will you be available?
What hourly rate do you expect, and how to you expect to be paid?
How do you like to get feedback and suggestions?
What do you like and dislike about home care?
(Based on information from interviewees and How to Care for Aging Parents, pps. 155-161, and The Caregiver Helpbook, pps. 177-181.)
