Your responsibility to assist in maintaining quality care for your elderly parent or other loved one does not end when you hire a caregiver. It is imperative that you are able to observe and assess the interaction between your loved one and the caregiver to determine the success of this partnership. Home care in Orlando experts, BrightStar Care, suggests there are seven qualities that all good caregivers should possess.
- Respect. A quality caregiver treats his/her patient with respect for their lifestyle, even if it varies from that of their own. Cultural differences, background experiences, religious beliefs, etc. should not be a point of contention between them, or better yet, left undiscussed.
- Integrity. An excellent caregiver is honest to all members involved in the patient’s care and well being. It is the responsibility of the caregiver to communicate truthfully with the patient and his/her family regarding issues of care.
- Sincerity. If the caregiver does not sincerely enjoy working with the elderly, they shouldn’t be doing it.
- Dependability. Once a caregiver has been introduced into the patient’s home, it is vital that the caregiver remains true to the daily routine. Punctuality and consistency are very important to building a solid relationship between them. Adhering to a schedule is central to the mental and emotional stability of many elderly people.
- Safe practices. It is the job of the caregiver to anticipate and be prepared for all situations that may arise during a patient’s daily routine. From mobility issues around the home to dietary guidelines to making sure there are no potential hazards in the house, an in-tune caregiver will always be on the lookout for ways to keep your loved one safe and healthy.
- Compassion. Growing old often results in mobility issues, memory issues, and communication issues that can be very frustrating to your loved one. A good caregiver will demonstrate earnest compassion for their charge and will help your aged relative navigate through the nuances of the aging process.
- Accountability. Quality caregivers should always perform their duties with the best interest of your loved one in mind. They should be held accountable to the standards set forth by the organization they work for, and to you, as their family.