Kylie Meyer's advice in how to hire a senior caregiver

An older woman sits on a park bench outside with a younger woman sitting next to her on the right

Hiring a caregiver takes time and energy, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Simplify the process with this expert-backed advice.

Hiring a caregiver is a process that requires time, energy and thoughtful preparation β€” but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are simple steps you can take to secure the best support possible, starting with prioritizing the senior who will be receiving care. 

β€œFamilies should approach this journey with compassion and a deep understanding of their loved one’s unique needs, preferences and daily routines,” explains Jessica Corona-Irwin, a registered nurse and certified dementia practitioner at Remo Health, a virtual dementia care company. β€œBy taking a strategic and empathetic approach, families can find the right caregiver and create a supportive environment that enhances their loved one’s quality of life.”

From determining the costs to writing a thorough care plan, here, experts offer a step-by-step guide for hiring a senior caregiver. 

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Kylie Meyer Headshot 2024

Including the person receiving care into this initial discussion can also facilitate a smoother transition, explains Kylie Meyer, a caregiving expert and assistant professor at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case ΒιΆΉΣ³»­. Meyer knows firsthand how helpful this can be. Her father hired a caregiver only for her grandfather to promptly fire them, and this β€œwas repeated several times.”

β€œBeing able to describe functional abilities to a potential caregiver can help you communicate your family’s needs, though the caregiver or agency may do their own assessment," said Meyer.