The senior population, those 65 and older, is projected to reach 71.5 million by 2030 more than doubling from 35.1 million in 2000. This growth has increased the need for caregivers in homes, facilities, or even hospitals. Families or individuals that decide to bring a caregiver into the home should focus on finding a caregiver with the right personality, qualities, and training. In addition, a great caregiver can restore peace of mind and stability to the life of an aging loved one, as well as supply relief to the family members that otherwise provide care.
What makes a great caregiver?
Caregivers can be many things, and during your search, look for a few of the below characteristics to find a great caregiver.
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Empathy: Great caregivers are able to cultivate closer bonds by sharing in the happiness or the sadness of the seniors they care for.
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Patient: Caregivers understand that slowing down is a process of aging. A great caregiver allows the elderly to move at their own pace and not make them feel rushed.
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Dependable & Honest: Caregivers work with a great deal of independence. A great caregiver must be counted on to be where he or she is required to be on time and prepared as well as to perform required duties in the absence of continuous supervision
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Compassionate: Great caregivers possess a powerful desire to help others, especially seniors. They are inviting and available even if all they do is listen and provide companionship.
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Dedication: We are one hundred percent dedicated to our client's care. They are absolutely worth every minute that we take to provide care for them. We make sure our clients are happy with their care before ending our shift each day.
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Knowledgeable: We take our time to get to know exactly what our client needs. Are they on a special diet or medication? Do they need full, physical, hands-on care, or are they able to complete some tasks on their own? We certainly wouldn't want to take away any independence they still have.
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Positive: Everyone knows that a person's mood is infectious. When we come to a client's home with a smile on our face and make it apparent that we are happy to help; this can only have a good effect on the people we serve.
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Flexibility: Flexibility is a critical quality in a caregiver, both with medical staff adjustments and outside responsibilities. It is important that families and employers be aware of the responsibility a caregiver has assumed. It is also vital that a caregiver continue to make arrangements for last-minute changes that require additional or alternate care.
Of course, many other traits contribute to a great caregiver however these characteristics should serve as a starting point if you or a loved one are ever faced with the serious task of choosing a caregiver to be in your home, or the home of an aging loved one.
If you're interested in becoming a caregiver, find your local Caring office and start an application today.
