Tuesday, September 23, 2014

How A Personal Caregiver Can Help Improve Quality Of Life

By Lessie Kaufman


Institutions and homes caring for the elderly and for people with disabilities simply cannot cope with the demand. They do not have the resources to accept all applicants. Likewise, hospitals cannot provide beds for all those patients that need a period of convalescence. By hiring a personal caregiver it is possible to ensure that an infirm or elderly loved one receive proper care in the comfort of their own homes.

While experts agree that most patients and elderly people are better off being cared for at home, there are certain instances when institutionalization is the best or even only option. People that suffer from dementia or other conditions that require specialist care should rather be placed in an institution that is experienced in dealing with the condition. The same holds true for people suffering from constant pain.

However, the vast majority of people that need some form of help will do better if they are able to stay in their own homes. A private helper will certainly mean that some changes will have to be made but the disruption will not be as traumatic as relocation to an institution will be. The client will be able to stay in control of his own routines and preferences.

It is not only elderly people that make use of the services of private assistants. Many people simply need help for a period while they are convalescing from surgery or a serious illness. Others have disabilities that make it difficult for them to move around or to perform household tasks. They are certainly better off hiring private help than depending upon family members or neighbors.

Employing a live in private helper holds many benefits. In many cases the patient is lonely and isolated. The assistant can play a very important role in keeping the client company. Families that are not able to personally visit ill or infirm relatives are also more at ease within the knowledge that there is a responsible person that will make sure that their loved ones are cared for.

Appointing a private assistant should be undertaken with great care. It is best to opt for someone that has interests similar to the patient. It is also vital to check that the candidate has experience in assisting people in similar situations. If medical attention will be necessary it is vital to ensure that the candidate has received appropriate training. Experts advise that it is best to make use of the services of placement agencies.

Living in the home of a client does not mean that the assistant has no rights. There should be a written agreement that details the duties and responsibilities of the employee. The agreement should also stipulate the privileges of the assistant, off times and communication channels with the family of the patient. If this is not done formally conflict may arise at some point.

It is hard when one reaches a stage when you cannot tend to all your own needs. Many people in such circumstances resent the fact that they are forced to rely on others to help them. It is far better, however, to enjoy the privilege of a private assistant as opposed to being submitted to the rigors and rules of a formal institution.




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