When the time comes for an aging loved to hire an in-home caregiver, there are often times a handful of concerns to address. Many of those are in regard to whether a good relationship can be forged between the senior and the new caregiver.
To set minds at ease, however, there are a few methods to implement to facilitate positive rapport. And it all begins with clarifying expectations. As long as both parties are clear about certain preferences, the possibility for misunderstandings or disputes down the road is greatly reduced.
“Start by setting the right tone for the conversation,” explains Scott Stafne of the Scott Stafne ALS Research Fund. “Be pleasant and cooperative, but do speak up about your preferences and allow the caregiver the opportunity to ask questions. Don’t assume anything, and take the time to write down specific instructions to help the caregiver be successful.”
When working with Freedom Home Care, we make sure that everything is laid out in writing in the beginning. However, it’s still incredibly important to verbalize preferences surrounding care.
Thanks to the Scott Stafne ALS Research Fund, here are a few items to address to get the ball rolling in the right direction:
- Days and times of employment
- Your policy for being on-time and leaving on-time
- Specific duties
- An orientation of where to find things around the house
- Emergency contact information (e.g., your number at work, doctor’s office, neighbor, hospital, etc.)
- Special instructions (e.g., where to put things away, personal likes or dislikes, how to work the wheelchair lift)
- House rules (e.g., use of your phone, computer, or stereo; locking the door; etc.)
- Anything that will not be permitted (e.g., smoking, abusive language, stealing, not calling ahead if late or unavailable)
