Whether your loved one is just beginning care or transitioning to a different caregiver, preparation makes all the difference. Consistency and structure are the keys to ensuring your loved one receives the attention, comfort, and support they deserve. By planning ahead, you can turn hiring a new caregiver into a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved.

To help you get started, here are four quick, practical tips that can make the process of hiring a new caregiver easier and more reassuring for both you and your loved one.

Tip One: Stay Consistent

When hiring a new caregiver, one of the best things you can provide is a clear routine. Many older adults thrive on consistency because it creates a sense of stability and reduces stress. A daily routine helps your loved one feel secure while giving the caregiver confidence in their role.

Examples of activities to include in a routine:

• A morning walk or light stretching
• Puzzle time, board games, or card games
• Cooking or baking simple meals together
• Crafts, coloring, or art projects
• Listening to favorite music or singing along

These activities not only keep your loved one engaged but also create opportunities for meaningful connection.

Tip Two: Keep it Simple

Television often plays a role in daily life, and when hiring a new caregiver, it’s important to include this in your planning.

• Write down your loved one’s favorite shows along with the times they air.
• List the channels so the caregiver can easily find them.
• Show the caregiver how to use the remote. TV remotes can differ greatly and may feel complicated. Giving instructions prevents frustration and ensures TV time remains enjoyable.

This small step keeps entertainment simple and consistent, especially for caregivers who are just starting out.

Tip Three: Plan for Success

A written daily schedule makes life easier for everyone. When hiring a new caregiver, provide them with a simple guide for when activities and meals should take place.

Sample schedule:

• Morning: A walk outside, followed by breakfast
• Late morning: Puzzle or craft project
• Afternoon: Favorite TV show or music time
• Evening: Dinner preparation and a card game

Consistency helps your loved one know what to expect while also allowing caregivers the flexibility to adapt if needed.

Tip Four: Engage Your Agency

When hiring a new caregiver, keep in mind that adjustment takes time. Your loved one may need a few days or weeks to feel comfortable, and the caregiver may also need time to learn your loved one’s preferences.

If you feel the caregiver isn’t the right fit, contact the agency after the shift is over. Provide specific examples of what didn’t work, such as difficulty following the schedule or personality mismatches. Clear communication helps the agency find a better fit quickly.

It’s also possible that a caregiver may decide not to return. This is not personal—it simply may not be the right match for their skills. Open and respectful communication ensures the best outcome for everyone involved.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

To make hiring a new caregiver easier, follow these steps:

1. Write down a daily schedule that includes meals, rest, and activities.
2. Provide a list of favorite TV shows and instructions for using the remote.
3. Incorporate your loved one’s hobbies to keep care personalized.
4. Balance consistency with flexibility, understanding not every day will go as planned.
5. Stay in touch with the agency and give feedback as needed.

Choosing the right caregiver for your loved one is a critical decision. 

Hiring a New Caregiver

Bringing a new caregiver into your home is a big decision—one that can greatly impact your loved one’s well-being and quality of life.

Hiring a new caregiver doesn’t have to be stressful. With preparation, structure, and communication, you can set your loved one—and their caregiver—up for success. A thoughtful routine helps create consistency while maintaining flexibility when needed. Most importantly, it provides your loved one with the stability and comfort they deserve. 

Need Support with Hiring a New Caregiver?

If you or a loved one need a new caregiver, Assured In Home Care is here for you. Our mission is to ensure that your loved one receives the attention and support they need while maintaining the highest level of independence for as long as possible. Contact us today to start creating a care plan that truly supports their well-being. Together, we can make hiring a new caregiver simple.

Written by Jacqueline DuPont-Carlson, PhD, EdD, Gerontologist

For more questions, please contact an advisor at Assured In Home Care at (800) 925-7159.