Understanding the Difference Between Caregivers and Caretakers
Caregivers are an integral part of the healthcare system. You might have heard this term associated with homecare, assisted living, and a wide range of other applications. Some people confuse caregivers with caretakers. While these terms are certainly similar, they have very different connotations. Learn more about what to expect from a caregiver from Bloomington, IL’s BrightStar Care.
What to Expect From a Caregiver
A caregiver is someone who provides direct care and support to individuals who are unable to fully care for themselves. This role often involves assisting with bathing, feeding, medical tasks, and offering emotional support. Many caregivers are unpaid and help their loved ones, while others are professionals trained in caregiving. People in this role allow individuals with health issues or disabilities to maintain a higher quality of life. Beyond that, they also offer peace of mind to families, who can rest assured their loved ones are in capable hands.
How the Role of a Caretaker Is Different
While similar to caregiving, caretaking generally refers to taking care of non-human entities such as property, animals, or even objects. A caretaker ensures that these entities are well-maintained and functional. Their daily tasks might include cleaning, repairs, and ensuring that the property is secure.
Key Distinctions Between Caregivers and Caretakers
Despite how similar caregiving and caretaking may sound, these terms often refer to vastly different things. The primary difference between the two lies in the focus of care. Caregivers focus on people and their well-being, while caretakers focus on properties and animals. In addition, caregiving often involves a significant emotional component. Caregivers build relationships with their clients (or loved ones, in the case of family caregivers) while providing emotional support and companionship. In contrast, caretaking is more task-oriented and less emotionally involved.
The Practical Side of Caregiving
Caregiving is a very rewarding job, whether it’s your career or you’re simply helping a loved one. However, there are many practical considerations to think about when you take on the responsibility. A typical day for a caregiver involves the following:
- Daily Tasks and Responsibilities—The everyday responsibilities of a caregiver are wide-ranging. On some days, they may be tasked with meal preparation and providing companionship, while other days involve helping with personal hygiene and grooming.
- Medical and Health-Related Duties—Caregivers often play a key role in managing medications, monitoring health conditions, and communicating with healthcare professionals.
- Financial Help—Family caregivers may also handle financial matters. This can include managing budgets, paying bills, and purchasing groceries. Financial assistance is not a common component of professional caregiving, but the BrightStar Care team can help you explore options for financial aid.
Find the Care Resources You Need
Caregiving and caretaking are distinct yet important roles that serve different purposes. Understanding these differences can help you identify the right resources and support for your specific needs as a family caregiver. And by recognizing the unique challenges of caregiving, you can better prepare for the road ahead. If you need help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to BrightStar Care. We serve families in the Bloomington and Springfield area, and our caregivers are glad to be part of your support system.