There is no other profession or calling that exudes kindness and love for humanity than being a caregiver. A caregiver has the patience and energy to take care of our loved ones, and this is not an easy thing to do. The task entails love, patience, and responsibility. The special bond that develops between a senior and a caregiver is deep and one that lasts for a long time.
A caregiver is one who provides physical and emotional care to an elderly loved one or a disabled person at home or in a care facility. In most cases, the primary care giver is a spouse, parent, partner, or an adult child but there would come a time that caring for someone becomes frustrating and becomes a burden. This is when a caregiver is needed not only to assist on the care needs of the senior but support the family as well.
Here are a few benefits of having a caregiver look after the elderly:
1. Help maintain independence.
As the elderly gets older losing independence is a contributor to depression and loneliness. Most seniors feel comfortable and happier in their own homes. However, keeping them cared for and safe may be a challenge. Caregivers provide the extra help so that seniors may stay in their own homes. Even in the case of in-facility care, the senior receives personalized care that can boost their independence and confidence.
2. Caregivers provide companionship
The isolation and depression that comes with it is the biggest problem faced by the elderly. The seniors may not be able to go out as much as they want to or socialize often, many do not spend time with their families. Caregivers provide the companionship and friendship. There is a special bond developed between the elderly and the caregiver. Just interaction with another person will have a significant impact on the elderly’s well-being and happiness.
3. Provides information on the elderly’s condition
Caregivers are trained to understand and are educated about the elderly’s health condition. He or she can detect and notice any change in the eating habits, behavior, appearance, and overall condition. It is the responsibility of the caregiver to alert the doctor or the family on any significant change.
They are knowledgeable about the elderly they are looking after and know the medicines prescribed by doctors. Caregivers also have the training to deal with any emergency.
4. Caregivers give personalized care.
Caregivers are trained for a variety of services. Other services that a caregiver can provide:
· Transporting the elderly or picking up groceries or medicines
· Assist in mobility of the patient.
· Housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, groceries, etc.
· Personal care like bathing, dressing, etc.
· Assist in medical needs like feeding tubes, taking vitals, etc.
A customized service plan is usually made to ensure that each patient is getting the needed care according to the unique health conditions.
5. Family peace of mind and assistance.
To care for a senior patient is a full-time job. Families who have caregivers stop worrying about the elderly because there is always someone looking after their welfare and safety. When a caregiver is hired, the family has another helping hand.
It is not only the patient that needs quality care. The family will benefit with much-needed rest and peace of mind, Caregivers can step in and perform tasks that can alleviate burdens with caring for an elderly and prevents burn out and frustration on the part of the family.
6. Caregivers provide flexible availability
Caregivers can be available at any time whether the elderly need help for just a few hours or for long-term. They can work around a senior’s schedule and still provide optimum care. He or she can be called upon whenever there is a need.
Overall, hiring a caregiver for an elderly patient is the best option to maintain the quality of life. The elderly’s emotional and physical state are cared for as well. What is important is to have someone who can care and perform tasks needed to make the elderly comfortable.
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