5 Qualities Of A Professional Caregiver

9 February 2021
 Categories: , Blog

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When it comes to finding someone to take care of a loved one around the clock, you want only the best. Price generally should not be the biggest concern but rather, the level of professionalism the service can provide. You'll want someone who looks at caregiving as a calling and not just another job. But what are the fundamental traits to look for in home care services?

Expertise

Different states have different guidelines for home caregivers, but you should see some credentials that show training home care. Common certifications are basic caregiver certification and Certified Nursing Assistant certification. You also want to see they have training in first aid and emergency situations. Nutrition training is also preferable if your loved one has a preexisting condition with dietary requirements, such as diabetes.

Experience 

How long has the caregiver been working? Does the caregiver have experience with preexisting conditions? Some conditions such as dementia need a high level of experience.  Are they willing to give references? You may want to follow up on the references to get a good picture of the caregiver. 

Communication Skills 

Good communication skills are essential for home care services. A caregiver should be able to pick up on non-verbal cues if your loved one has communication difficulties. The caregiver should also be able to communicate with you on the condition of your loved one. A good caregiver can interact with people of different personalities. For example, many people with chronic conditions can feel discouraged and despondent. That is why you need someone with a positive attitude.  

Compassion 

A good caregiver is compassionate and empathetic. They should genuinely love their job and have a nurturing spirit that enables connection with a patient at a deeper level. You need to be able to recognize their passion for the work because it can be difficult. Compassion helps to build a bond with a patient because they will spend a lot of time together. What hobbies and interests does the caregiver enjoy? Shared hobbies with the patient can make time spent together more enjoyable. 

Patience 

Home care services require a patient and understanding personality. Patients with conditions such as Alzheimer's may strain an average caregiver's patience. 24/7 home care services are physically and emotionally involving. How does the caregiver de-stress? There is a real danger of emotional burnout in caregiving. A professional caregiver should have ways of dealing with the emotional burden. 

Is your loved one in need of  24/7 home care services? It is crucial that you hire a reputable caregiver. Look for the traits above in your candidates and you will have a perfect match. For more information, contact a home care service.