The process of hiring in-home care requires hunting referrals or working through an agency, screening, and relying upon trustworthy references. While these steps can provide initial confidence and peace of mind, involving your loved one is a critical step in the selection process as well.
Companionship is a significant benefit of hiring in-home care, but a genuine relationship requires both parties to learn about one another. Inviting a new caregiver into the home is very personal and can be uncomfortable at first, but these are some ways to help your loved one and a new caregiver to connect.
Storytelling
It can be difficult to get elders to open up initially, but flipping through photo albums and looking at memorabilia together is a great way to jog the memory and create opportunities for meaningful discussions.
Music Therapy
Listening to music together can be a great way to form a bond. Hearing a treasured old song is often therapeutic for older adults by bringing back memories and reducing anxiety. Try leaving out a few favorite records or CDs to be played during the new caregiver’s visits.
Sharing Hobbies and Activities
Discovering pastimes that both professional caregivers and your loved one enjoy equally is a great way to forge a connection. Finding things to do together will help keep minds and bodies active and engaged, not to mention spark conversations. If any of a senior’s interests require supplies or special instructions, be sure to make these easily accessible for their new caregiver.
Warming Up to Multiple Caregivers
While having the same person visit the home is preferable, that may not always be possible. As soon as possible, introduce your senior to the aide(s) who might serve as backups for their primary caregiver. Meeting with and establishing a relationship with multiple caregivers is especially important if a senior's condition requires assistance from multiple people and to understand the need to accept other caregivers as part of their care team.
Building Trust
If a new caregiver isn't a good match, don't give up. If you are going through an agency, tell the company that they are not working out, why, and ask for a caregiver who has your desired personality and skills. If the caregiver was not connected to an agency, ask friends, church members, co-workers, and anyone else you can get referrals and trustworthy references from.
After the initial awkwardness and apprehension has been overcome, older adults often begin looking forward to visits with their in-home caregivers.
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