Search for commonly asked questions
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Home Sharing Provider
Selecting the right home sharing provider is one of the most important decisions you will make for your loved one. A good match goes beyond finding a safe home. It is about creating a supportive environment that promotes comfort, independence, and inclusion.
Before you agree to a home sharing arrangement, it is important to know what to expect and what questions to ask. This guide will help you prepare for conversations with providers and agencies so you can make an informed decision.
Prepare Before You Meet the Provider
Families should expect an interview process where both sides learn about each other. To prepare:
- Make a list of your loved one’s needs, preferences, routines, triggers, and supports that work well
- Review the individual’s care plan with the agency
- Bring questions about daily routines, support strategies, roles, and communication
Essential Questions to Ask
- What is your experience in home sharing or caregiving?
Understanding the provider’s background is key. Ask:
- Have you supported someone with similar needs
- How long have you been a home sharing provider
- What training or certifications do you have
Look for providers who combine formal training with personal qualities such as patience, flexibility, and empathy.
- What does a typical day in your home look like?
Lifestyle matters for compatibility. Ask:
- What is your household schedule
- Do you have pets
- How do you spend weekends and holidays
Expect some adjustment, but routines should align with your loved one’s needs.
- How do you handle medical or behavioral needs?
If your loved one requires specific health or behavioral support, confirm the provider’s readiness. Ask:
- Are you trained in first aid or emergency response
- How do you manage medications
- How do you respond to challenging situations
Request concrete examples of how similar situations have been handled.
- How do you support community inclusion?
Social connection is essential. Ask:
- How do you encourage participation in the community
- Are you comfortable supporting activities like classes, volunteering, sports, or faith-based involvement
- How do you communicate with families and agencies?
Clear communication prevents issues. Ask:
- How often will you provide updates
- What is the best way to reach you and when
- How do you handle disagreements or misunderstandings
Agree on regular check-ins so everyone stays informed.
- What is included in the home environment?
A welcoming, accessible home matters. Ask:
- Is there a private bedroom
- What shared spaces are available
- Are there household rules or expectations we should know about
- What are your expectations of us as a family?
Home sharing works best when roles are clear. Ask:
- Do you expect visits or calls on a schedule
- How do you handle holidays and family gatherings
- How will we collaborate on goals, appointments, and emergencies
Try a Gradual Fit Before Moving In 24/7
To make sure the match is right, consider a phased approach:
- Coffee or brief meet-up in the community
A low-pressure introduction to build comfort and rapport.
Afterward, debrief with your loved one about how they felt.
- Dinner or short visit at the provider’s home
Observe the home environment, communication style, and routines.
Discuss: Did they feel welcomed and respected
- Half-day or full-day visit
See how daily routines, activities, and supports work in real time.
Ask: Were needs met promptly and respectfully
- Overnight stay
Test bedtime and morning routines, privacy, and comfort.
Reflect: Did the person sleep well and feel safe
- Weekend stay
Experience the flow of a full weekend, including meals, activities, and downtime.
Review: Were any concerns raised and resolved
- Short trial period (for example, one to two weeks) with a written trial agreement
Clarify roles, communication, finances, and exit options.
Hold a formal check-in with the provider and agency to decide whether to proceed.
At each step, check consent, comfort, and readiness to continue. Make sure everyone, especially the individual, has space to say yes, no, or not yet.
Practical Tips Before You Decide
- Visit the home in person more than once and at different times of day
- Ask for references from other families or agencies
- Request a written description of routines, expectations, and emergency procedures
- Create a clear, time-limited trial agreement before a full move-in
- Take your time to make sure the match feels right for the individual, not just convenient for the system
Final Thoughts
Choosing a home sharing provider is not just a placement. It is the start of a partnership based on trust, respect, and shared expectations. These questions and the gradual-fit approach can help you choose a provider who will create a safe, supportive, and inclusive home for your loved one.