Hiring guide
Bringing someone into your loved one's home is a big decision. Here's a calm, step-by-step way to do it well, and feel confident about who you chose.
Write down the day-to-day: what help is needed (companionship, meals, bathing, mobility, memory support), the schedule, and what a good day looks like for your loved one. This becomes your job description and helps caregivers picture the role.
The best caregivers come from vetted, trusted sources. Browse a directory of background-checked caregivers near you, ask people you trust, and reach out to local CNA and nursing programs. You can also post your own job and share the link with your community.
Experience matters, but how someone thinks matters more. Alongside "tell me about your experience," ask what they would actually do:
You're listening for patience, honesty, and judgment, not perfect answers. Watching a short video interview first can tell you a lot before you ever talk.
Call at least two, ideally past employers or families they've cared for. Ask: were they reliable? How did they handle a hard moment? Would you hire them again for your own family? Listen for hesitation as much as words.
For anyone new to your family, a background check is inexpensive peace of mind. The caregiver consents, and you look for anything that would genuinely affect safety. Never decide based on a name-match alone, and follow fair, lawful steps.
Before committing, pay for a few hours together. You'll learn more from one real shift, how they are with your loved one, than from any interview.
A simple agreement keeps everyone comfortable: who, the schedule, the pay and how often, the main duties, and a start date. It doesn't need to be formal, just clear.
You can do everything right on paper and still feel unsure, or feel instantly at ease. That feeling matters. This is someone who will be alone with the person you love. If something feels off, keep looking. If it feels right and the references and check hold up, you've probably found your person.
HomeTogether Hire gives you vetted caregivers with video interviews, ready-made interview questions, background checks, and a place to score and compare everyone you meet. $25/month, cancel anytime.
See what's included →Start with vetted sources, a background-checked directory, trusted referrals, local CNA programs. Interview, call references, and run a background check before anyone starts.
Ask real situations (the repeated question, refusing care, a fall, a sudden change) and listen for patience and judgment. A video interview first tells you a lot.
Yes, for anyone new to your family. It's inexpensive, the caregiver consents, and any decision based on it should follow fair, lawful steps.
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. For household-employer tax questions, consult a tax professional.