Set aside some time as you approach this critical next step: finding the appropriate person to fit the job description. One of the best ways to find a helper is to get a personal recommendation from a trusted relative or friend. Churches, synagogues, senior centers, Independent Living Centers and local college career centers, especially those which have nursing or social work programs, are good places to advertise for in-home help. Listings for these places can be found in your local phone book.
Locating Resources in Your Community
One place to begin your search is with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). To find the AAA nearest to you, call the Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116 or visit the AAA website at www.n4a.org.
Your AAA can provide the following:
Information about attendant registries
Lists of Home Care Agencies
Tax help for seniors
Suggestions for places to advertise in your community
Most communities have attendant registries that can be an excellent resource for finding in-home help because they typically provide some initial screening of applicants. When calling an attendant registry (generally listed under Nurses and Nurse Registries in the phone book), it is important to inquire about their particular screening process and/or training requirements as well as about any fees charged. While some are free, fees for using a registry can vary greatly. It is a good idea to shop around and obtain the best service at an affordable price. There are also nonprofit community agencies (generally listed under Social & Human Services for Individuals & Families in the phone book) that maintain lists of individuals available to perform all kinds of household tasks, from cleaning and laundry to repairs and gardening.
If all of the above sources fail to produce an in-home worker, you may choose to advertise in the “Help Wanted” classified section of a community college, local paper or neighborhood newsletter. The advertisement, at the minimum, should include hours, a brief description of duties, telephone number and best time to call, e.g.: “Home Care Assistant needed to provide supervision and companionship to older adult with memory loss. Must be compassionate, reliable and able to assist with bathing, dressing and eating. References required. Call to apply.”
Source: caregiver.org