Here are some suggested questions to ask potential caregivers and some to pose to their references. You will need to add specifics to tailor these to your situation. You may also find it helpful to describe a typical situation the applicant would encounter with your parents and see how she would respond. Then ask the references how they think the applicant would have responded.

For the Applicant

• Do you have experience caring for elderly people?

• Do you have any formal training in care giving?

• When did you receive this training? Are you certified or licensed?

• What was your last care-giving experience like?

• What did you like most about it?

• What did you like least about it?

• How many times did you call in sick?

• What hours are you available to work for my parent?

• Can you work weekends? Nights?

• Are you currently working at another job?

• Do you consider yourself dependable?

• Do you have your own car? Is it in good working condition?

• Do you smoke?

• Do you have a copy of a recent police background check on yourself?

• Are you comfortable with me calling your references?

Questions for the References

• How would you describe the applicant?

• Would you recommend this person as a caregiver?

• How many times did she call in sick or was otherwise unable work?

• Is this person able to handle difficult situations?

• What were the applicant's strong points?

• What were the applicant's weak points?

• Did you have any difficulties with this applicant? If so, what?

• Is this applicant dependable? Honest? Trustworthy? Hardworking? Flexible?

• Punctual?

• How would you rate the applicant's care-giving skills? Excellent? Good? Fair?

• Unsatisfactory?

• Would you hire this person again?