It’s not always easy making the decision to find your mom or dad the assistance they need. In fact, your mother or father is most likely as discouraged about this as you are. No one wants to be taken care of, and your parent probably had requested that they remain living in their home as an independent adult.  However, whether due to physical illness or the lack of energy to maintain their health and needs on their own, the time may have arrived to hire in home caregivers. When the time comes, it is important to remember that a caregiver is a person too. Just like your mother or father, they have feelings and needs and it is crucial that not only is there a commonality between the companion and your loved one, but that the care provider understands what is expected of them in exchange for payment.

Although your mom or dad may look at in home caregivers as companions and friends, it is still a job for the individual. However, the job must not let your parent feel like they are an object. In home caregivers at our agency are provided with an outline of the duties that both you and your parent expect and need.  Your mother or father’s health history and special requirements should be described as well.  If the in home caregivers are comfortable with the expectations, this is the first step to success in the hiring process and possibly a long-term relationship with your parent.

Sometimes families assume that because a caregiver was excellent with friends or another person they knew, that they would have the same experience. It is always best to take the time to interview and have your loved one spend some quality time with this care provider and that you and your agency provider review the feedback from both your parent and the individual before assigning them on a more permanent basis. It is also important not to rush your decision on hiring someone. You want to make sure you have checked out the person and agency and are happy with the information you have discerned. While making your choice this should be quality time for you and your mom or dad.