When you have an interview for a senior care position, you might be mostly concerned with the questions the interviewer is going to ask you. Do you have the right training? The specific experience? There are so many different types of senior care out there, and some require more physical work than others, for example. But just as your interviewer wants to know specifics about you that will tell them if you’re right for the job, it’s necessary for you to ask questions that will help you determine if the opportunity is the right fit for you.
Senior care providers need to be familiar with an employer’s ground rules, dealing with call-outs, client expectations, and means of communication. Furthermore, every client has their own unique needs that you may or may not be trained to manage, such as bathing or dressing an older adult. That means it’s crucial to find out more about the duties and expectations of the job in advance, as well as gathering basic details of your employment such as pay and hours.
To make sure a job is the right fit for you, here are 24 questions to ask when you’re interviewing for a role as a senior care provider.
Basic questions about the job:
- Will I be expected to drive the client to appointments or visits, or take them out to run errands? Will I be given transport or be expected to use my own vehicle?
- What are the hours and days for this position?
- Will there be overnight shifts?
- Is this a permanent or temporary position?
- What is the dress code?
- How will I communicate with other members of the caregiving team?
- What are your policies regarding sick leave and vacation?
Questions about the client’s health and needs:
- Can the client feed themselves?
- Will the client need help bathing?
- Is the client at risk of falling?
- Who do I call if the client is injured or has fallen?
- Will I be expected to give the client medication or just remind them to take it? Note: You should only help with the client’s medication if you are qualified and trained to do so.
- Will I be expected to lift the client, and if so, how much do they weigh?
- Will I need to familiarize myself with equipment such as a bath hoist?
- Does the client have wound issues?
- Does the client have dementia, and if so, to what degree?
- Will the client’s family members be present while I’m working?
Questions about the home:
- Are there any pets?
- Will I need to clean the house or change bedding?
- Will I be expected to prepare meals? Are there any dietary restrictions?
- Will I be required to do grocery shopping or pick up prescriptions?
Questions about compensation:
- What is the wage and what are the benefits for this position?
- Are arrangements in place so I can take care of my taxes?
- How often will I be paid?
By ensuring that these crucial questions are answered before you accept a position, you can pre-empt misunderstandings and enjoy smoother sailing in your new role.
