How to Employ a Live-In Caretaker for a Parent

Adult children often need to take responsibility for the care of an elderly or ill parent. However, your life circumstances might make it difficult to give your parent the amount and type of care he needs. One solution is to hire a live-in caretaker, but this option is usually only available to families who can afford this type of care. Before choosing a caretaker, take time to make sure she's the right fit for your parent's needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Look into the caretaker's training and work history. Call former employers and ask about his work ethic, reliability, and level of professionalism. Call the references the caretaker provides to you. Study his resume, and pay close attention to his special skills or certifications. They need to match up with the needs of your parent.

• 2

  Get to know the caretaker on a personal level. It's important to consider her background, training, and credentials, but you also need to get to know her as a person. If possible, let her meet your parent and see if they connect. You and your parent need to be completely comfortable with her before hiring her as your parent's live-in caretaker. When the caretaker leaves, be sure to ask your parent how she feels about her.

• 3

  Ask the caretaker detailed questions about his previous work experience and training during an in-person interview. Make sure he has the right qualifications for the needs of your parent. For example, if your parent uses a breathing machine, the caretaker should have previous experience with this type of equipment.

• 4

  Ask the caretaker for permission to do a criminal record background check. Have her sign a document giving her consent, to cover yourself legally. Include in the document permission to look for her name in the state’s adult abuse registry and child abuse registry.

• 5

  Discuss the caretaker's payment and work schedule in great detail. You need to choose a live-in caretaker for your parent who has the right qualifications and who requires a salary you can afford. Don't be afraid to negotiate payment. To bring the price down, offer him more days off during the month. But first, make sure you or someone you trust is available to care for your parent during the caretaker's days off.

• 6

  Have your parent's home ready when the caretaker comes in for an interview. Give her a tour of the house, including where she'll stay, before the interview starts. It's important for you to be comfortable with her, but it's also important for her to feel comfortable and at home. Otherwise, she may end up quitting after a short period of time, and you'll have to start the process all over again.