It takes more than credentials … when selecting a caregiver for your loved one, look beyond the resume.
Yes, it is vitally important that the individual or individuals you select to be a caregiver have the training, skills, and experience to provide the services you need. Beyond that, however, comes those traits that can make a tremendous difference in the life of your loved one.
Compassion
Caregivers must be passionate about caring for others. They have to be not only sensitive to the needs of their senior, but also sincerely enjoy the art of helping others. Ask a potential caregiver about the life experiences that demonstrate the ability to be patient and aware of the needs of others. You are looking for a person who knows that caregiving means “giving care.”
Understand What You Need
Take the time to consider the specific needs of your love one. Do you need someone who can do light housekeeping, shop for groceries, and make meals? Does Mom or Dad need assistance bathing or getting dressed?
Are there medical issues that limit physical or cognitive abilities, such as Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, or dementia? You may need to hire different individuals to provide specific care. It is key to identify your expectations and clearly articulate them to potential caregivers.
Compatibility
A relationship between caregiver and senior is dependent upon compatibility. If they truly enjoy each other’s company, the relationship will grow. This connection is critical to maintaining a meaningful experience. Ask questions to get to know the potential caregiver better. What hobbies do you enjoy? Tell us something about your family and how you spend time together. What kind of music do you enjoy? You are looking for clues that they might share interests with your loved one.
Logistics
Expect definite answers to questions about availability. Know when you will need to have the caregiver in place – what days, what times. Make sure that transportation is not a problem and that enough time will be given for traffic delays so that the caregiver is at the home when expected. Clearly explain how you want to receive communication – by phone or text and which family members need to be on the contact list. If you do not want the caregiver to use the phone during work hours for personal calls or texting or surfing the Internet, say so.
References
Be sure to talk to references who have used this caregiver in the past. Obviously, you are looking for a person who is honest, trustworthy, reliable and highly trained. A reputable caregiving agency will have screened potential caregivers. They will have verified the individuals’ credentials. When you are talking with an agency about the prospects they are sending, ask questions that give you peace of mind that the caregiver you hire possesses the qualities you require.
Selecting an Agency
When selecting a caregiving company, read the reviews from families that have used the company recently. Ask these questions of each agency you are considering. Does the agency conduct background checks on all employees? Are their caregivers licensed to practice in your state? What accreditations to they hold? Do they offer a free initial in-home consultation? What types of professionals do they have – registered nurses; physical, speech, and occupational therapists; nutritionists; social workers; home health aides? What process do they use for you to give feedback on a caregiver? Is the agency available 24/7? What happens if the caregiver just doesn’t work out?
You are looking for a company … and caregivers who go above and beyond in the service they provide.
If you have any questions about selecting a caregiver to meet your needs, email or call Marie LeBlanc at Transitions Liquidation Services at 617-513-0433.