Resources

Caregiver Resource Centers, (800) 543-8312, https://www.cacrc.org, are available to assist caregivers in locating community resources and finding the in-home help. Lists of interview questions, employer and employee rights and responsibilities, and more detailed information on types of assistance available to caregivers can be obtained from the Caregiver Resource Center in each county. Suggestions include:

— Consider hiring someone for a one-month trial. Explain that this would be an opportunity to see whether this is a mutually acceptable arrangement.

— Once someone accepts your job offer, put the agreement in writing. Include information about the trial period, job duties, salary, pay schedule, time off, start date and termination policy. Keep copies of this job contract signed by both of you.

— Try to be at your loved one’s house for the first few days to familiarize the new caregiver with the routine, then drop by regularly unannounced.

Administration on Aging, U.S. Government Department of Health and Human Services, (202) 619-0724, https://www.aoa.gov. Publications and advice about hiring and applicable laws.

American Assn. of Retired Persons, AARP, (888) 687-2277, https://www.aarp.org, offers articles, tools and discussions. Specific information about hiring can be found at: https://www.aarp.org/relationships/caregiving/.

-- Rosemary McClure