Meeting new people can be a bit stressful for some of us…and exciting for others. These heightened emotions can be especially prevalent if the person you’re being introduced to will serve an important role in your life. Imagine, if you will, meeting your in-home caregiver for the first time.
At Comfort Home Care, we understand the various emotions our clients can experience when they engage us for in-home care services. Having a stranger in their home can be uncomfortable for many seniors. We understand this and strive to make our clients feel relaxed and comfortable while we assist them with the activities of daily living. Since 1999, we have been providing a wide range of in-home care services in the Washington, DC, and Montgomery County, MD areas.
Here are a few suggestions we have found to make the introduction to an in-home caregiver easier.
First Meeting
When you meet your caregiver for the first time it’s a good idea for family to be present, if at all possible. This will give you the opportunity to introduce yourself, show them around the house, and get a general feel for their personality. If you’re not able to be there in person, then a video call can work just as well.
During the tour point out unique elements of the space such as special features of the stove or a bed that requires a step stool. You should also go over any possible safety concerns and features. Let the caregiver know where the fire extinguisher is located, where you keep the flashlights, and where the extra batteries are.
Expectations and Responsibilities
Discuss the expectations and responsibilities of the caregiver’s role. This could include helping with meals, assisting with bathing and dressing, toileting assistance, helping with stretching and light exercises, or simply providing companionship. It’s important to be as specific as possible so there are no misunderstandings.
Scheduling and Availability
You will want to discuss how often you will need your in-home caregiver. Setting a schedule will become especially important if there is a set schedule the caregiver will need to adhere to, such as regular doctor’s appointments or physical therapy sessions. If there are any conflicts another caregiver could be scheduled to fill in during these times.
Emergency Contacts
It’s a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts printed and kept in an easily accessible spot. Included on the list should be a spouse or partner, child(ren), a close friend, a neighbor, and their care team members.
At Comfort Home Care, we understand meeting a new in-home caregiver can come with a variety of emotions. Following these simple tips can help ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible.
To learn more about our services or to schedule an assessment, speak to the staff at Comfort Home Care today.
