I have found that cameras in the home go a long way. I cannot count the number of caregivers we've gone through. Probably 1 out of 10 have worked out really well keep trying though. We have a jewel right now.

As a CG myself, I read your article to see if there might be something I was missing, to check myself. :) I work for an agency that does an amazing job of placing the proper CG with the right client.
Just some ideas from our standpoint to keep in mind; we all have to enter homes, yes, with a good care plan, but just as blind to your specific household rules and ideals. Those of us who really care, want to make as few waves to the regular flow of things as possible, and it can make us anxious as well, making sure your loved one is as comfortable and still feeling like their homes haven't been taken over or invaded!
Give us a fair shot. Most of us are here because we care so much and might be nervous, hesitant, etc. etc. etc. We want to respect their lifestyle (abrupt changes to usual schedules are disruptive) but sometimes have to interrupt in order to ask questions, medication reminders, remove/ apply ice packs, and it takes time to learn how to approach, how to get in there and show we care, and are there for any and everything they need, we're worried too sometimes.
If there's CG shift changes, you'll find you may like one more than the other(s) and it can be difficult for one to live up to the others favorite. We want to know, just how you like your pillows, if the lights are too bright, if you like this or that cup more, windows doors open? Etc etc etc.
Yes, many things to think about.
But always, one good question for your potential CG:
"What made you want to become a caregiver?" Their answer and your gut, will tell you everything you need to know.
There are many of us out there.
Love and light to you on your journey...

You are both made such accurate points ! Really enjoyed reading your comments.

It is imperative when hiring an in home care person/aide to establish "ground rules". We have a non-agency live in aide for my mother in law. She is devoted to her and says she "loves" her. We live 3 hours away so unfortunatley there has been a feeling of caregiver taking advantage of this situation. Had we anticipated some of these situations we could have addressed these things ahead of time. It is worrisome of the things we know about vs the things we don't. The important thing is MIL is happy with the caregiver so we weigh the out the situation. What gets me really mad as a hornet is when the guidelines have been established, she breaks the boundary, we confront her and then she gets an ATTITUDE with us. Though we can't do this because of distance, I suggest people do drop ins on the caregiver as much as possible. But setting written rules and schedule in the beginning is most important.

Although it doesn't sound scientific or professional, trusting your gut is vital; regardless of your embarrassment or not wanting to cause waves, you are ultimately the guardian of what is best for your parent. A definite Red Flag are verbal complaints about how little money the in home aid makes, bill problems, etc. shut it down or get a different aid, the problem can quickly escalate until your parent is asked right out for money. If the aid has small children , do not allow them to come and bond with your parent, it can be used as another guilt factor to get money. Go ahead, be the bad guy, initially you may lose sleep, but you will do what is best for your parent.