Finding the right caregiver feels like one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make, and you’re absolutely right about that. When you’re entrusting someone with your loved one’s care and welcoming them into your home or your loved one’s home, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Let’s break this process down into manageable steps that will help you find reliable, trustworthy help without losing your mind in the process.

Start with the Big Picture First

Before you dive into interviews and background checks, take a step back and think about what you really need. Are you looking for someone to help with light housekeeping and companionship a few hours a week? Or do you need more comprehensive assistance with personal care like bathing, medication reminders, and mobility support?

The national median cost for nonmedical in-home care is $33 per hour in 2025, but this can range from $17 to $34 per hour depending on your location and the level of care needed. In areas like Louisiana, where the cost of living is much lower and there are more available professionals, the median cost is about $17 per hour for care. Having a clear budget in mind will help you narrow your options right from the start.

Choose Your Path: Agency vs. Private Hire

You’ve got two main options, and each has its advantages. Working with a licensed home care agency costs more upfront, but they handle the heavy lifting for you. They conduct background checks, provide training and worker’s compensation insurance, pay payroll taxes, cover the primary caregiver’s sick days, and tend to be more reliable.

Hiring someone privately can save money, but it puts all the screening responsibility on your shoulders. You’ll need to handle payroll taxes, worker’s compensation, and find replacement coverage yourself. For many families, especially those new to hiring caregivers, starting with an agency makes sense.

The Art of the Interview

Whether you’re working with an agency or hiring privately, you’ll want to ask the right questions. Start with their experience caring for older adults and their education or training background. Ask about specific scenarios: “What would you do if my mother refused to take her medication?” or “How would you handle an emergency situation?”

Pay attention to how they talk about previous clients. Do they speak with respect and compassion? Can they give you concrete examples of how they’ve handled challenging situations? The best caregivers understand that every person has different needs and preferences.

Essential Questions to Ask

Ask about their experience with conditions similar to your loved one’s situation. If your family member has dementia, you want someone who understands how to communicate effectively and manage care refusals. Find out about their training in CPR and first aid, and whether they’re willing to get additional certifications if you pay for them.

Don’t forget practical matters. Are they comfortable with the specific tasks you need help with, such as personal care, driving to appointments, or light housekeeping? Do they have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license if transportation is part of the job?

Background Checks Are Non-Negotiable

This is where you can’t cut corners, even if the process feels intimidating. A thorough background check should include criminal history, reference verification, and identity confirmation. Some families also request driving record checks and drug screening.

If you’re hiring through an agency, they handle this for you. Many states require agencies to conduct comprehensive background checks, including fingerprinting through the Department of Justice. If you’re hiring privately, you can use services like Checkr or other professional background check companies.

Ask for at least three references and call them. Previous employers or families they’ve worked with can give you insights you won’t get from a resume or interview.

Trust Your Instincts

Here’s something nobody talks about enough: your gut feeling matters. If something feels off during the interview, even if you can’t put your finger on what it is, listen to that feeling. You need someone you feel completely comfortable having in your home and caring for your loved one.

On the flip side, don’t expect to find someone perfect. A caregiver who shows genuine care, asks thoughtful questions about your loved one’s preferences, and demonstrates flexibility is often more valuable than someone with the longest resume.

Start Small and Build Trust

Consider beginning with a trial period or part-time arrangement before committing to full-time care. This gives everyone a chance to see how the relationship works out. Many families start with a few hours a week and gradually increase as comfort levels grow.

Create a detailed care plan that includes your loved one’s daily routine, medication schedule, emergency contacts, and any specific preferences or concerns. The more information you provide upfront, the smoother the transition will be.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if someone seems reluctant to provide references, won’t consent to a background check, or gives vague answers about their experience. Similarly, be wary of caregivers who immediately agree to everything without asking questions about your loved one’s specific needs.

Price that seems too good to be true often is. While you don’t want to overpay, extremely low rates might indicate inexperience or unreliability. Remember that you usually get what you pay for when it comes to caregiving.

Making the Final Decision

Once you’ve found someone who passes your screening process and feels like a good fit, don’t rush into a long-term commitment. Start with clear expectations about duties, schedule, pay, and house rules. Put everything in writing, even if it’s just a simple agreement.

Remember that finding the right caregiver might take time, and that’s okay. It’s better to be thorough now than to have to start the process over because you rushed the first time around.

For additional guidance on finding caregivers in your area, you can use resources like AARP’s hiring guide or check with your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals to trusted providers.

Key Takeaways

• Expect to pay $17-$33 per hour depending on your location and care needs

• Agencies cost more but handle screening, insurance, and backup coverage

• Background checks and reference calls are essential for private hires

• Start with a trial period to ensure compatibility

• Trust your instincts alongside objective screening criteria