Common Sense Steps To Preventing Abuse By Caregivers

Prior to hiring a caregiver, there are steps that can be taken to ensure that a loved-one will receive the dedicated care they require from an employee. Interview questions for potential caregivers are suggested in the "Hiring Paid Caregivers for In-Home Services" published by the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. Suggested questions for a prospective employee might include:

• Why are you in this line of work?
• What kind of special training, if any, have you had?
• What types of work do you enjoy? Do not enjoy?
• Do you have any physical or emotional problems that would hinder you in this job?
• Have you ever been convicted of a crime? What? Where? When?
• Would you be willing to transport the care recipient to doctor’s appointments or other
outings?
• Is there anything on my “list of needs” that you can’t or won’t do?
• How long do you plan to stay on the job? Will you provide at least two weeks notice before resigning?
• Would you ever have any occasion to bring someone with you?
• Would you agree to a trial period for training and getting acquainted?
• Are you familiar with special diets (i.e., diabetic, low sodium, low cholesterol)?
• Do you have reliable transportation?

The document also includes advice on the need for criminal background checks and a review of the potential driving record.

For more go to: Preventing Abuse by Caregivers