By Chris Berry
Depending on your needs caregivers can fulfill a number of different roles. There are a number of benefits to having a caregiver. In this article we will discuss those benefits, how to find a caregiver, and the questions you should ask along the way.
A caregiver can observe and update you regarding your nutrition, hygiene, physical activity, and services along with other daily issues. When receiving care it is very helpful to have someone ensure you’re at the right place at the right time. Like weekly and monthly doctor’s visits, shopping, and therapy. A caregiver can ease some of the pressure you’re facing and help you be where you need to be.
(Related: Family Caregiving Can Benefit Caregiver Health)
Relationships with family members often cloud judgment. An objective professional caregiver can ease communication and properly advise the patient, as opposed to a family member.
Before choosing a caregiver you ought to consider the range of services that you will be requiring. Consider the following when doing so:
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Review the activities within a typical day of the patient to determine the exact duties required.
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If the patient suffers from dementia or physical disability be sure to search for a caregiver with the corresponding experience
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Decide whether it is necessary for the caregiver to prepare meals, and also consider their ability to create diet-specific meal choices.
After identifying your specific needs list, visit the following resource and connect with appropriate pool of caregivers to begin your interviewing process.
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Additional resources:
Begin with preliminary phone interviews, describe the job in detail and include the required hours in addition to pay offered. Next, schedule the in-person interview. It is best to have another family member or friend participate in the interview to offer an objective perspective. Prepare a list of questions prior to the interview. Ask questions relevant to the caregiver’s experience and expertise pertaining to the daily activities list you created.
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- Previous jobs?
- Duties?
- What type of patient medical limitations have you worked with?
- What is your experience cooking for other people?
- Is there anything in the job description that you are uncomfortable doing?
- Have you had to deal with a patient emergency in the past?
- Can you keep track of and administer medications?
- Would you be able to transfer someone from a wheelchair into a car or bed?
- How do you feel about caring for a disabled person? Or a person with memory problems?
- Can I contact at least two work-related and one personal reference?
Determine the person who is most qualified and with whom you feel the most comfortable. Check the references of at least two final applicants. Quality applicants could have other opportunities, so do not delay very long before making an offer.
Read more: http://www.insideeldercare.com/caregiving/how-to-choose-a-caregiver/
Christopher J. Berry is an elder law lawyer in Michigan Dedicated to helping seniors, veterans and their families navigate the long-term care maze. To learn more visit http://www.theeldercarefirm.com/ or call 248.481.4000
