Who’s actually looking after your loved one? Finding the right caregiver is more than just ticking a few boxes. This person is stepping into someone’s home, maybe even into their life. That means trust, compatibility, and proper support all matter a lot more than a glowing CV or polite smile.
Whether you’re planning care for an ageing parent, a family member with a disability, or someone recovering from a serious health event, it’s not a light decision. It takes time, research, and a clear head. You need to know what really matters and what could trip you up later if you ignore it now.
Here are seven key things to keep in mind.
1. How it’s paid for
Let’s get the money question out of the way. Support at home can be expensive, so it’s worth knowing what your options are.
If you’re wondering whether a caregiver paid for by Medicare is possible, the answer is yes, but only under certain conditions. This usually applies when skilled nursing or therapy is medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor. General personal care, like help with dressing or bathing, typically isn’t covered unless part of a broader care plan.
Understanding what is and isn’t included early on can save a lot of stress later. It also helps you decide whether you’ll need to combine paid services with family support or seek other financial help.
2. What kind of care is actually needed
Before you start searching or interviewing anyone, be clear on what kind of help is required. There’s a big difference between needing someone to handle medication schedules and needing someone to just pop in with groceries or meals.
Is medical help required?
Are there mobility or safety concerns?
Will the person need full-day supervision?
Are companionship and social interaction just as important as the physical care?
Having specific needs written down helps when comparing providers. It also keeps the focus on the person receiving care, not just the logistics.
3. Qualifications, training, and experience
Anyone can call themselves a caregiver. That doesn’t mean they’re properly trained or experienced for your situation.
Check if the caregiver has certifications relevant to the type of care required. For example, dementia care and mobility support both need a different skill set than post-surgery rehab. Also, ask how long they’ve been in the role and whether they’ve handled similar cases before.
It’s not about finding the most qualified person on paper, but someone who understands the unique challenges of the role and can handle them calmly and competently.
4. Personality match and communication style
This is where things can fall apart quickly. Even a skilled caregiver can cause tension if there’s no personal fit. Maybe they’re too quiet, too overbearing, or just don’t connect well with the person receiving care.
Spend time with the caregiver before committing to regular visits. Ask questions, observe how they interact, and don’t ignore gut feelings. Look for patience, clarity, and empathy. If communication feels off at the start, it’s unlikely to improve over time.
This also applies to your relationship with the caregiver. You should feel comfortable giving feedback, asking questions, and trusting them to be honest with you.
5. Availability and flexibility
Life doesn’t stick to a neat timetable. Appointments run over. Illness strikes. Plans shift. Your caregiver needs to be someone who can adapt without making everything harder.
Ask about their availability upfront. Can they work evenings or weekends if needed? Do they have backup support if they’re sick or on holiday? Is there any flexibility if the care needs increase in future?
This isn’t just about convenience. Unreliable care creates stress for everyone involved, especially the person who relies on it.
6. Background checks and references
It might feel awkward, but it’s completely reasonable to ask for proof of background checks and contactable references. If someone’s entering your home or a loved one’s home, this is about safety, not suspicion.
Some questions to ask:
Have they worked with vulnerable individuals before?
Can they provide references who are not family or friends?
Have they had any complaints or issues raised in past roles?
Even if they’re coming through an agency, it’s worth double-checking these details yourself. It shows due diligence and care.
7. What happens if things go wrong?
Nobody wants to think about it. But what if something doesn’t work out? What if the caregiver misses multiple visits, causes upset, or just isn’t the right fit?
Have a clear plan for what steps you can take. This includes:
- Who to contact in case of problems
- How to give feedback or raise concerns
- Whether there’s a trial period or cancellation process
- What your rights are regarding changes in care or service
It helps to ask these questions early, rather than when you’re already dealing with a stressful situation.
Final thoughts: It’s not just a job, it’s a relationship
Caregiving isn’t only about tasks and timetables. It’s about trust, dignity, and daily life. That’s why it’s important to look beyond paperwork or convenience and really think about what kind of support would make a positive difference.
You’re not just choosing someone to do a job. You’re choosing someone to be part of a routine, a household, and sometimes even a family. So, slow down. Ask questions. Keep communication open.
The right caregiver can make all the difference, not just for the person receiving care, but for everyone around them.
