First day & orientation checklist

A good first day prevents a hundred small problems later. Walk through this together with your new caregiver so nothing important gets missed.

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Before they arrive

Signed work agreement (schedule, pay, duties)

Emergency contacts and the doctor's information written down

A current medication list

A plan for keys or door codes

The care plan and daily routine written down

The home tour

Bathroom and any safety features (grab bars, shower chair)

Where supplies live: medications, first aid, cleaning, linens

How the key appliances work

Thermostat, alarms, and locks

Parking and how to get in

About your loved one

Introduce them warmly, in person

Their likes, dislikes, routines, and what upsets them

What a good day looks like

How they communicate, and any hearing or vision needs

Food, cultural, and religious preferences

Working together

Confirm the schedule and how pay works

How to reach you, and a backup contact

Exactly what to do in an emergency

Where and how to leave visit notes

Schedule a friendly first-week check-in

Tip: go through this with the caregiver on day one, it turns a nerve-wracking start into a warm, organized welcome, and shows them you're a thoughtful family to work for.

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