- Blog Archive
Caregivers help seniors age at home, but some seniors are reluctant to truly rely on a caregiver. Make sure your mom or dad's new caregiver succeeds. Use these tips to form a strong partnership in your parents' elderly care needs.
Be There Without Being in the Way
A caregiver may find it easier if you are available for the first few days. That doesn't mean you should be hanging over the caregiver's shoulder. If you can work from home, set up a work area in a den or quiet room and get to work. If the caregiver has questions, he or she can come to you.
If your parent is being particularly difficult, you can sit back and observe quietly. See how the caregiver responds. You don't have to mediate arguments, but you can help if your parent is being particularly cruel or stubborn.
Find Similar Interests
Find interests that the caregiver shares with your parents. If the caregiver enjoys gardening and your mom loves to garden, bring that up. They could spend time working in a garden while they get to know each other.
Prepare Your Mom or Dad in Advance
Talk to your mom or dad before the caregiver is due to arrive. Go over what the caregiver is there for and why it's important to you. They may be nervous or uncertain they need help, so you can emphasize the caregiver is there for your peace of mind.
If you've involved your parent in the hiring process, this may go smoothly. If they feel involved in the decision making, it's better than if they feel that you're springing something on them.
Give a Home Tour and Make Introductions
Introduce the caregiver to your parent. Give the caregiver a full tour of the home and show the caregiver how to run the dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, vacuum, and other appliances. Show the caregiver where dishes and items like trash bags and toilet paper are stored. Go over any rooms or items that your parent prefers the caregiver not enter or touch.
Watch Your Body Language
Even if you have a disagreement with something the caregiver does, do not make it apparent in front of your parent. Your mom or dad may pick up on your unease or annoyance and take it out on the caregiver.
Remember that the caregiver is trained to do things a certain way. That doesn't mean it's the wrong way. If the task gets completed, how it is done is less important than the fact that it's done.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering a Caregiver in Chapin, SC, please talk to our caring staff. Call today (803) 223-6173.