Choosing a caregiver for a member of your family is a very important decision. Depending on the intensity of your loved one’s needs, a caregiver could become an important part of your loved one’s and your family’s life. Here are 4 tips for choosing the best caregiver for your loved one.
Assess your loved one’s needs in detail
Everyone’s needs are different. Some people require more intense health or medical care, whereas others only require that their caregiver complete household chores or merely provide companionship. It’s important to honestly assess the needs of your loved one’s so you can select a caregiver who has the necessary skills and expertise.
Watch a prospective caregiver interacting with your loved one
Invite a prospective caregiver to spend some time with you and your loved one. You can do this in an interview or more informal setting following an initial interview. The goal here is to determine if there is a fit between the personalities of your loved one and the caregiver, or if they ‘click.’ Be sure to ask your loved one for their input – they will be the one spending the most time with the caregiver, and you want them to be comfortable.
Check references
Don’t hesitate to ask a prospective caregiver to provide references to people whose family members they’ve cared for in the past. Three references is usually an appropriate number to request. Remember that, in general, the best way to predict future performance is to assess past performance. A caregiver who performed well in the past should be open about and willing to provide references.
Be forthright about the services your loved one needs
Be honest and forthright about the care your loved one requires. Do not hold back out of fear of deterring a caregiver. You don’t want to hire a caregiver who’s not equipped to handle your loved one’s needs. C-Care employs many caregivers capable of attending to a wide array of complex medical requirements, and we would be happy to discuss your needs honestly with you
Adhering to these best practices will greatly increase the likelihood of you finding and retaining a great caregiver that meets the needs of your loved one and family. The home care professionals at C-Care Health Services are held to the highest standards of professionalism. If you are considering hiring a home caregiver for a member of your family, consider giving us a call. We can help assess your needs and find the right caregiver for your loved one.
