Many elderly people prefer to be taken care of in the comfort of their own home. This can help retain a sense of identity and importance, as well as make care more conducive to someone with complicated needs. If you’ve ever considered giving home care, there are many things to keep in mind that will help those you care for feel comfortable and loved.
When giving elderly home care Massachusetts services to the elderly or others in need, it is important to keep these guiding principles in mind.
1. Reliability
Arrive on time and keep your promises, whether for a deadline or anything else. When people who have been independent their whole lives can no longer do things self-sufficiently, they need a caregiver they can rely on. Being reliable builds trust and will strengthen your relationship with those you work with.
If elderly people lose trust in those caring for them, they may end up attempting to do things themselves that are dangerous. It’s crucial to be responsible and make sure they can count on you.
2. Compassion
The people in your care are human beings who are entitled to the same rights we all have, and have personal preferences and pet peeves just like you. Get to know them and understand who they are to help guide your care. Ask them how they’d like you to do certain tasks or if they need anything to be done in a specific way.
Seniors may be losing cognitive function and display some unintentional behavior, like being forgetful or grumpy. Have compassion in these moments too; be patient and learn to understand their needs.
3. Dignity
An elderly person was once young and vibrant, able to do all the things you can do with ease. Losing the ability to bathe or cook dinner on one’s own can wear down someone’s confidence and hope. Although the help is there to help them continue enjoying their lives, it can still be hard to admit that they need help.
Help the people in your care maintain their dignity by letting them safely complete some tasks by themselves. It may be as simple as putting on their jacket without help. Learn to gauge when they would like to do something on their own, and when they would rather you take care of it.
As you can see, adhering to these simple guidelines not only can improve the life of the person you are caring for, it will make your job more fulfilling.
