Strategies for Managing Home Care Workers

You have decided to enlist the help of professional home care workers. Whether you have chosen a business that employs a team of workers or you have decided on just one contractual worker, you have made a wise choice.  Home care workers can bring a sense of relief to you and will help with all of your duties. In order to keep stress to a minimum while employing a home care worker for your elderly loved one, keep the following strategies in mind.

Care Plan

A care plan identifies the duties of the home care worker. It includes a schedule, all medications your aging parent takes and all medical contacts, including physician, social worker and pharmacy. In this care plan be sure to include all expectations of the care worker and the daytime and nighttime needs of your parent.

A care plan is especially important when you have a team of care workers or if a replacement care worker is needed at the last minute. It gives them the knowledge of your expectations without having to repeat yourself to multiple care workers.

Communication

Communication is especially important when you are using the help of a home care worker. He or she needs to know when something new has arisen in your parent’s health or when something has changed in the care plan schedule. Keeping the lines of communication open between you and the care worker will help caring for your parent run smoothly.

Decision-Making

As your parent’s main caregiver, you are the ultimate decision maker. You decide how you want your parent cared for. You must communicate these wants and needs to your home care worker. Always remember, you have the final word. If the care worker does not agree, begin searching for a replacement.

Caregiving is a stressful job, but hiring help can make the daily tasks much easier to handle. Be sure to communicate your expectations to the care worker as this will make for a smooth transition as he or she begins caring for your parent.