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Ultimate Guide on How to Get a Sitter for the Elderly

Written By
Giselle Bardwell
Published On
September 3, 2025
Hiring an elderly sitter is one of the best ways to support an aging loved one. However, the process isn’t always straightforward, as several things can go wrong if you make the wrong hire.

If you are wondering where to find elderly sitters in Greater Cleveland, you can remove the uncertainty by hiring a trusted agency. At BrightStar Care, every sitter is carefully screened, trained, and supported by a professional team.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to get an elderly sitter, what services to expect, and why an agency is the safest choice.

What Does an Elderly Sitter Do?

Also known as a senior sitter, an elderly sitter provides non-medical support designed to keep older adults safe and engaged in their homes. Sitters may engage in conversation, play games, prepare light meals, help with simple household tasks, assist with errands, and offer reminders for medications. They may also assist with errands or accompany a loved one to appointments.

However, you should note that sitters are not the same as home health aides or nurses. While aides and skilled nurses provide hands-on medical care such as wound management or monitoring health conditions, sitters focus on social interaction, safety, and everyday comfort. This distinction makes sitters a practical choice when seniors need support but not medical services.

Signs Your Loved One Needs a Sitter

If you are trying to determine if your loved one needs a senior sitter, you need to pay attention to changes in their daily life. Below are common signs that suggest it may be time to consider an elderly sitter:
  • Isolation or anxiety when alone: Seniors who withdraw from social activities or feel uneasy without company may benefit from regular companionship.
  • Increasing forgetfulness: Missed meals, medication slips, or confusion with routines can put their health and safety at risk. A senior sitter offers gentle reminders and supervision.
  • Caregiver burnout: When family caregivers feel overwhelmed, bringing in support ensures both the senior and caregiver receive the help they need.
  • Risk of falls or injury: Difficulty with balance, mobility, or home safety is a strong signal that extra supervision is necessary.
  • Changes in mood or behavior: Irritability, restlessness, or sudden shifts in personality can indicate a need for consistent companion care. 

Finding Reliable Elder Care in Cleveland

When looking for dependable senior sitters, knowing where to begin can save time and reduce stress. Common places to find elderly sitters in Cleveland Ohio include:
  • Home care agencies: Agencies like BrightStar Care are the most secure choice. They carefully screen sitters, provide training, handle scheduling, and guarantee backup support if a sitter is unavailable. This ensures continuity of care and reliability.
  • Community-based elder support organizations: Senior centers and nonprofit programs may connect families with companion sitters. However, availability can be limited.
  • Online caregiver directories: They are useful for finding independent providers. Families must vet carefully through background checks and references to avoid risks.
  • Church or volunteer groups: Local faith communities or volunteers sometimes offer companionship services. However, consistency and training may vary.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Senior Care

Once you’ve identified potential options for an elderly sitter, the next step is asking the right questions. This will help you discover what to know before hiring a senior sitter for your parent. Here are some key questions to ask:

1. Are they background-checked?

A thorough background check ensures the sitter has no history that could put your loved one at risk. Ask who performed the check and how recently it was done. The references should also be verified.

2. Do they have CPR or first aid certification?

Emergencies can happen unexpectedly. Hence, a caregiver should know basic life-saving skills. Confirm that their certification is current and recognized by a reputable training provider.

3. Do they have experience with dementia or senior care?

Seniors with memory loss or confusion require special patience and techniques. Do they offer dementia and Alzheimer’s care? Ask for examples of situations they’ve handled and how they maintained dignity and safety.

4. How do they handle emergencies?

Request specific stories about past challenges and their response. This helps you gauge their decision-making skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.

5. What is their availability and backup plan?

Consistency is key in elder care. You should ensure they can commit to your schedule and clarify what happens if they’re unavailable.

BrightStar Care’s Sitting Services

At BrightStar Care, we provide the best in-home sitters for the elderly in Ohio. Our sitters focus on offering the companionship and supervision that will keep your loved ones safe and engaged at home.

Every client receives a customized elder care plan tailored to their individual needs. Whether you require hourly visits, overnight support, or short-term respite care, our services are flexible and designed to fit your schedule.

Additionally, what truly sets us apart is the assurance of RN oversight. A registered nurse develops and supervises each care plan to guarantee the highest standards of safety. This professional guidance allows families to trust that sitters are reliable and backed by clinical expertise.

Final Thoughts

The best Ohio-based home care for seniors will ensure that your loved one remains safe and comfortable at home. With BrightStar Care, you get more than an elderly sitter. We give you a team committed to compassionate and dependable support.

Our senior sitter services in Cleveland include flexible scheduling, custom care plans, and the assurance of RN oversight. Whatever your needs are, feel free to contact us on (440) 613-1500 for a consultation.