When considering the option of bringing in a caregiver for a member of your family, it can be an emotional process. Your loved one is just that, loved deeply, so allowing others to help care may feel impossible to do.
The number one reason family caregivers hesitate to ask for help is because they feel that others won’t be able to understand all of the details that go into caregiving for YOUR loved one. From how they like their meals prepared to when they need to take their medication - it’s a task that can’t be delegated to just anyone.
Here at Home Instead, we understand the trust it takes to open your home up to a caregiver and know there are many questions that come to mind. “What does a caregiver do?” is often the first step in feeling comfortable with a shift in responsibilities.
If you're considering hiring a caregiver or are simply curious about the vital role they play, we want to shed light on the positive impact they can have on your entire family.
First and foremost, a professional caregiver offers you respite.
We know that if you could be with your loved one 24 hours per day, 7 days per week - you would. We also know that it’s just not possible. You deserve to lay your head on the pillow at night and know that your loved one is safe and cared for. At Home Instead, that is exactly the security we provide.
Our Care Pros go beyond basic assistance to provide comprehensive support to your family. We offer every service imaginable, from daily tasks around the house, transportation to and from appointments, to hospice support. Essentially, anything you would do for your loved one, we will do the same.
With our expertise, caregivers create a safe and comfortable environment, preventing accidents and minimizing risks. More than that, we find there is a lot of joy created for both seniors and our Care Pros when embarking on a support journey together.
Our Care Pros are flexible and available for your family’s schedule. Whether it be just a few hours a week or 24/7 care, we want you to know your senior’s needs are being met whenever needed.
We Help You Create A Routine
We all thrive on routine - but sometimes life gets in the way. While you’re in a life transition, routines can go out the window and the process of gaining them back can be a long one. We highly recommend creating a predictable routine for you and for your loved one. Even a general schedule for the day can help you understand where there may be gaps in care and what types of needs you have at different times of the day or week.
Another helpful tip - put this schedule in a place where everyone who interacts with your loved one can see so you’re all on the same page.
Your loved one’s needs and preferences are as unique as they are. At Home Instead, we understand this deeply and make it a priority to work closely with your family and loved one to develop a plan that is best for everyone.
Professional Caregivers Provide Independence For Everyone
When hiring a professional caregiver, it is vital to bring someone into your home that can handle a wide range of responsibilities, allowing you to strike as much of a balance as desired between caring for your loved one and personal or professional commitments.
As for your loved one, your caregiver (whether that is you or a professional), should help them strive for their own independence in a form that feels comfortable to them. We view ourselves as a second pair of hands ready to jump into the daily routine - while still allowing them to take on as much of their own care as possible. Maintaining independence is essential to keeping their spirits high and pride intact.
Create Easy Accessibility To Your Loved One
As a family member, there can be a lot of guilt associated with juggling care and daily responsibilities. Along with increasing the independence of your entire family, it’s nice to feel actively involved with your loved one’s daily tasks.
At Home Instead, we utilize The Honor Care Platform, which allows for complete transparency between our Home Instead Care Pros and your family. Specific tasks, schedules, tasks, and more can be logged into the app, giving the Care Pro a clear understanding of what your senior’s daily routine consists of.
For example, if they enjoyed fruit with their breakfast or had a question for their doctor during an appointment we transported them to, we will make a note in the Honor app so that everyone, including your family, is on the same page. The Honor app is also available to family members to provide a schedule, tips, and reminders for Care Pro since you know your loved one best. From there, Care Pros can mark tasks complete, provide notes, and keep your family informed so there is always communication about what is best for your senior receiving care.
A Caregiver’s Role Is Tailored To Your Loved One’s Needs
The role of a true caregiver extends far beyond the basic tasks of daily living. We make sure to offer comprehensive support, emotional companionship, and personalized care plans to ensure that your loved ones receive the assistance they need without ever losing independence.
At Home Instead, our Care Pros strive to make a positive difference in the lives of your loved one and family, providing exceptional care that enriches each day. If you're considering care options for your senior, we're here to offer our expertise and support. Together, we can create a personalized care plan that suits your family's unique needs.
