6 Simple Practices to Help Your Home Caregiver Thrive

One of the main desires for in-home care is to create a home environment that provides comfort, dignity, and as much independence as possible. Accomplishing this goal hinges on finding the right home caregiver—whether you hire a professional service, a family member, or a trusted friend. 

It can be tough to find someone who fully understands your preferences, routines, or expectations. By developing a training plan, you can change a standard caregiving relationship into a customized care experience. You and your caregiver can work together to make certain you get the care you need.

6 Strategies to Guide Your Home Caregiver 

Caregivers are there to help, but they need to know your preferences and preferred daily routine to make your lifestyle as comfortable and independent as possible. Here are some tips to help you and your caregiver design the perfect plan for your in-home care.

1. Create a Care Guide

A written care guide provides a foundation for personalized care.

• Include details about your daily routine.

• Specify your preferences in bathing, clothing, and meal preparation.

• Discuss basic medical needs. Wound care, treating bedsores, or other medical needs may require the services of a trained medical professional. While non-certified caregivers can be trained in basic medical procedures, those requiring specialized abilities indicate the need for professional intervention. This would be a subject best discussed with your primary care provider.

A guide will help your caregiver provide consistent care according to your liking. It will reduce misunderstandings and annoyances and will add to efficiency.

2. Demonstrate How You Like Things Done

Written instructions are a great tool that can be referenced often. However, it will also help to explain procedures and show your caregiver how you prefer things done. Go over every task or situation that may come up, such as:

• Preparing meals

• Grocery shopping and meal planning

• Assisting with wheelchairs or mobility scooters

• Laundry

• Getting dressed

• Daily cleaning routine

• Exercise or physical therapy

• Your skincare practice

Demonstrations make small but important details clear, and they cannot be overlooked like in a written plan.

3. Craft a Schedule That Works for You Both

Set expectations by crafting a plan for the week, including social events and chores. This may seem too structured, but it can bring clarity and allow room for planned rest for you and your caregiver. 

Work with your caregiver to fashion a plan that balances your care needs with the caregiver's availability. Strive for a sense of routine and reliability regardless of the tasks required. Whether it's administering oxygen therapy, providing massage therapy, or managing dementia-related care, a routine builds an overall sense of well-being.

4. Communicate Clearly and Respectfully

Open communication is vital to a successful caregiver-client relationship. Be respectful when discussing preferences and expectations, and provide honest feedback. You can strengthen the partnership with your caregiver through a two-way dialogue that shares concerns and ideas. If you're receiving assistance through programs like CDPAP, be sure to outline specific requirements to avoid confusion.

5. Embrace Learning Opportunities

Encourage your caregiver to improve their skills through relevant training or workshops. For example, courses on bedsore ulcer treatment or hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can boost their expertise and confidence. For the tech-savvy, there are caregiver apps that can streamline task management and help with communication. 

6. Stay Flexible and Open to Adjustments

Every caregiving relationship comes with a learning curve. Encourage your caregiver to stay open to feedback and adapt as needed. And be open to their suggestions, too. Should your needs change, work with your caregiver to adjust your routines if necessary.

Your Care, Your Choice!

Guiding your caregiver is about building a caring environment that works for you. Together, you and your caregiver can create an environment that feels comfortable for both of you, is efficient, and empowering. You are unique, and your in-home care should shape itself to your preferences. Working together, you and your caregiver can build the best experience for everyone involved. 

By following these steps, you can transform in-home care into a supportive, personalized experience that meets your needs and goals.