Each year thousands of families must make the hard decision about the care of an aging relative. While everyone wants the best care possible for their loved one, many people do not know where to begin. They do not know where to look for help, nor do they understand what caregiver qualities to look for in a caregiver. It is important that families receive sound advice and work with people they can trust throughout this process. So what are the qualities of a good caregiver? Let’s take a look.
How to Choose a Good Caregiver
The variety of different types of caregivers varies from dedicated home care agencies who specialize in the needs and daily care of the elderly, independent caregivers who work on their own, and even friends and family members who all work together to take care of a loved one. Regardless of the type of caregiver chosen, there are certain qualities great caregivers should possess to ensure they are a good match for your family.
5 Qualities Great Caregivers Should Possess
They should be:
- Dependable – Dependability is critical when selecting a home caregiver. The patient and family is depending on the caregiver to be prompt and reliable.
- Trustworthy – Great caregivers should be trustworthy. Families should feel comfortable having this person in their loved ones’ home and around their possessions.
- Compassionate – One of the most important caregiver qualities is compassion. Understanding what their patient is going through is of the utmost importance when selecting a good caregiver.
- Attentive – A good caregiver should be attentive to the needs of their patient. This allows them to notice when mental, mood, or physical changes occur that may indicate a bigger issue.
- Patient – People who make a career of providing home care need to have a great deal of patience. It is crucial to remain calm and focused when things don’t go as expected.
The Screening Process
An important part of choosing the right caregiver is the screening process, which verifies the information provided by the applicant is accurate and truthful. It is important to confirm the authenticity of any potential caregiver, as they have a very important job to do.
Screening Requirements for Caregivers
- Background check
- Driver’s License Report
- Verify experience, education, references and certifications
- Monitor internet presence including social media pages for red flags
Simplify the Stress
Simplify the process and alleviate the stress, financial burden and emotional strain that comes with choosing a caregiver.
Keep these key points in mind:
- Look for the required caregiver qualities
- Thoroughly screen applicants
- Seek help from the Long Term Living Association for elder care
Get the Help Needed to Care for an Aging Loved One
The Long Term Living Association (LTLA) works with people who are struggling to navigate through the maze of services and providers available to them.
Use our online scheduling system today to choose a convenient time for the team at the Long Term Living Association to assist you.
Geriatric Care Manager
Lorie Gardner, RN BSN
