In a previous blog post, we here at Freedom Home Care discussed a few methods for forging a good relationship with a new in-home caregiver. Although the recommended tips, care of Scott Stafne of the Scott Stafne ALS Research Fund, can be incredibly beneficial during the initial stages of a new caregiver relationship, they’re not always fool proof. Some situations don’t end up panning out, and in those unfortunate instances, Stafne’s group again stepped up.
“Sometimes discussing the issues isn’t enough to fix what isn’t working and you will have to terminate the worker,” the editors there explained. “If you’ve hired through an agency, the agency will handle the dismissal. But if you hired someone independently, dismissing the employee will be your responsibility.”
They recommended documenting problems as they arise to later cross-reference with a home care provider’s contract. It allows the opportunity to indicate specific moments when the contractual obligations were left unfulfilled.
“Remember, you don’t have to become best friends with your family member’s in-home caregiver, but you should have a productive professional relationship built on trust. You are entrusting this employee with a precious charge: to help a person you love. Ultimately, whatever you can do to help make the arrangement go smoothly will benefit both you and your loved one.”
We here at Freedom Home Care, however, have taken significant steps to hopefully avoid these situations altogether. That begins with carefully screening all of our employees and then allowing in-depth interviews between the potential caregiver and the patient and the patient’s family. We also provide in-home consultations to help you assess who would be right for you and what services are needed.
If you have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. After all, we’re here to help.