It can be challenging to introduce an in-home caregiver to a loved one. Some people may not be too keen on the idea of having a stranger come into their house to provide care. They may see it as a loss of independence, an intrusion on their personal space, or a waste of money. However, sometimes a family member isn’t able to give their loved one the complete care they need. In-home care may be the best option. Be assured that there are ways to make the transition easier for everyone involved.
Have an Open Conversation About the Transition
Let your loved one discuss their fears and concerns for not wanting an in-home caregiver. Eliminate their fears by expressing your understanding of their concerns. It may help if they are involved in choosing the care company or the caregiver. Ask them about the qualities they would like in a caregiver. Assure them that a caregiver will help them to continue living in their own home and will benefit them in the long term by allowing them to live more independently.
If the person in need of care has dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may not adjust well to change or an introduction of a stranger in the home. Some people may even feel threatened or suspicious of the new person. Be sure to recognize their concerns, validate their feelings, and let them know that things are going to be okay. The caregiver’s role can be reframed to help your loved one be more comfortable with allowing a caregiver in their home. Calling the caregiver a “housekeeper” or an “assistant” can reframe the caregiver’s role as a helper for the primary caregiver instead of threatening the independence of the person in need of care.
Start Off On The Right Foot
The person in need of care may be weary of having a caregiver so before the caregiver arrives, discuss with your loved one who will be coming and what they will be doing. Be sure to express excitement for the caregiver’s arrival and the help they will be providing. Initially, have the caregiver come for short amount of times. It’s best to have the primary caregiver present to help everyone get acquainted and build rapport. You can also create an introduction document to share with the caregiver to introduce your loved one to them. The introduction document should include important information to help the caregiver understand your loved one and provide better care like; anxiety or irritation triggers, personal history, details about their ADLs, ways they can be soothed, and cognitive strengths and weaknesses.
To prevent misunderstandings, discuss the specific expectations and responsibilities with the caregiver and the person needing care. It is also a good idea to discuss what the caregiver is not responsible for. The first meeting is the best time to explain to the caregiver about family preferences like removing shoes when entering the home or leaving the blinds open during the day. These family preferences can help the caregiver get acclimated to the home and make your loved one receiving care more comfortable.
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The transition to welcoming an in-home caregiver can be smooth and easy with some preparation and communication. Eventually, it will become a welcome help and relief for the family, while also giving the primary caregiver some needed rest. The person needing care may even gain a new sense of independence.
In Home Care for the Elderly to Support Seniors, Caregivers and Families in Arkansas.
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References:
https://www.choosecomforthome.com/introducing-your-loved-ones-to-a-new-in-home-caregiver/
https://commhealthcare.com/how-to-have-a-successful-first-day-with-a-new-in-home-caregiver/
https://www.caregiver.org/resource/introducing-home-care-when-your-loved-one-says-no/
https://www.txalz.org/blog/helping-loved-one-adjust-home-caregiver/