Letting a new caregiver into your parent’s home is a big step, and it can be hard to know which checks matter, how to read the results, or what to do when a report is not clear-cut. This workbook is for adult children and families hiring in-home care.
It was written by Esther C. Kane, CAPS, C.D.S., a retired occupational therapist, Certified Aging in Place Specialist, Certified Senior Home Safety Specialist, and CARES® Dementia Specialist, and it helps you screen a caregiver with care and fairness.
Inside the workbook, readers will find:
- What a caregiver background check includes
- Typical timeframes and costs for each type of check
- Caregiver check vs. a regular job check
- Care needs matched to the right screenings
- Your parent’s vulnerability snapshot
- Agency vs. private hire comparison chart
- Screening budget worksheet
- Interview questions to ask every candidate
- The Fair Credit Reporting Act in plain language
- Worksheet for looking up your state’s rules
- Screening provider comparison chart
- Warning signs in a screening company
- Script for introducing the consent form
- Candidate profile pages
- Reference check script and notes pages
- Results review worksheet
- Common deal-breakers and how to weigh other findings
- What to say when something shows up on a report
- 10 practice scenarios with “Think about” notes
- Adverse action tracker for saying no the right way
- Re-screening schedule and warning signs to watch for
- Concern log
- House rules and expectations
- Family check-in plan
- Caregiver contact sheet to post in the home
- Reflection pages and a hiring decision summary
- Resource list and next-steps checklist
This workbook is general information to help you plan. It is not legal advice and does not replace guidance from an elder law or employment attorney, and background check laws vary by state. If you believe an older adult is in immediate danger, call 911.
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Important Disclaimer: This workbook is for general education and planning only. It is not legal advice and does not replace advice from a licensed attorney. Background check laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act and state rules, can change and vary by location. Costs, timeframes, and screening details are typical ranges and may be different where you live. Check current requirements with your state health department or caregiver licensing agency, and talk with an elder law or employment attorney before you make hiring decisions. The author and SeniorSafetyAdvice.com are not responsible for hiring decisions made using this material. If you believe an older adult is in immediate danger, call 911. If you suspect abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, contact your local Adult Protective Services.
