Adjusting to Having In-Home Caregivers for Seniors

You’re a senior, living at home, who has decided to seek some help with everyday tasks. That’s great! Having help at home as a senior is a great way to make sure that you’re living life to the fullest. Caregivers for seniors can help with a whole range of things, from personal care to laundry to games and activities that keep you company and keep you mentally sharp. You’ve gone through the process of getting at-home help, and you’re ready to start. There’s only one problem –you’re a little unsure about what it means to have an in-home caregiver and the impact it has. Here are some tips in adjusting to having In-Home Caregivers for Seniors.

In-Home Care from the Beginning

Before you actually start to receive at-home care services, there are a few important steps in the process that can help make you more comfortable with the whole situation. First, read your care plan carefully; and ask questions about anything you may not understand. For example, if it says you’ll be receiving help with housekeeping; does that mean vacuuming and dusting? Or just general straightening up? As well as asking your care manager, you can find answers to common questions on our website.

Additionally, a home care agency will work hard to match you with the right caregiver; and your input is encouraged to make sure it’s a good fit. Don’t be shy about raising any objections to a caregiver you might not feel comfortable with.

Discuss Priorities with Your In-Home Caregiver for Seniors 

The in-home caregiver assigned to you will know what is to be done and will have enough time to complete the tasks. However, you still may want to discuss things with them. Maybe you prefer things done a certain way or in a certain order. If they are preparing meals for you, maybe you like things spicier (or not as spicy) as others. Make sure you make your concerns known so that you’re happy with the services provided.

An At-Home Caregiver for Seniors Is There to Provide Help, So Take It

This is a common situation with seniors receiving home care. You aren’t used to having people in your home when it’s not in tip-top shape. So what do you do? You clean up before the in-home caregiver arrives. It’s not necessary! Your in-home caregiver can help keep you company, but they’re not company; they’re there to help you with your housekeeping chores. Cleaning is what they are there to do, and if you’ve done it already, it may feel like having an in-home caregiver is adding to your workload instead of helping you with it. So let the in-home aide do the cleaning, even if it feels awkward at first. And no, you don’t need to help.

Having an At-Home Caregiver for Seniors Doesn’t Need to Feel Awkward

Many seniors feel ashamed of needing help to live at home, but don’t for a moment think that an in-home caregiver is going to judge you. Many at-home care aides also care for elderly members of their family, and they know it’s perfectly normal as we age to need a little help in order to stay safely and comfortably in our homes. Accepting help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and getting help with daily tasks is no different.

Having a Family Member Become Your Paid Caregiver

If you just can’t get used to the idea of having a stranger in your home, it is possible for a family member to provide in-home care services. Home Care Powered by AUAF can provide the training and certification necessary for your family member to become a paid caregiver. And again, a home care agency will never send a caregiver to your home that you do not approve. We can work with you to find the right caregiver for you.

Home Care Powered by AUAF Is There to Help Seniors Adjust to In-Home Care

Whether it’s making you more comfortable with receiving services or helping to find the right caregiver for you, Home Care Powered by AUAF is there to make sure the services you receive go smoothly and are comfortable for you. Ready to start? Call us at 773-274-9262 or contact us to find out more.