Rules of Etiquette When You Have a Caregiver in Your Home

When you have decided that you need a caregiver to help you with your daily care, it may feel strange at first. But, there are etiquette rules which you can apply which may help you to get over that hurdle. These rules are designed so that both you and your caregiver will feel comfortable in this new situation.

One thing to think about is that a qualified professional caregiver is trained to respect your dignity, wishes, and your privacy. Their job is to help you to age in place on your terms and will understand what you will need to accomplish this.

Setting up an introduction and expectations

You want to set up a solid foundation and what you expect with your first meeting with your caregiver. You will be having this person in your personal space, so you want to develop a relationship with them. An introduction will help you both begin to know each other. A home care company which is professional will make sure the introduction goes well.

At this point, take some time and go over your routine, show them around the home and talk about yourself and your expectations. This is an excellent time to explain any duties and see what care plan they have to offer or if something will need to be modified.

A safe and proper work environment

Your home is the workplace of your caregiver, and you want to make it as pleasant and safe as possible. If your home is too hot, then turn down the air conditioner, if it's too cold, then turn up the heat. The caregiver will need to use a bathroom. Another issue is smoking; if you smoke, you may be asked by the agency to refrain from doing so while the caregiver is present.

Another problem could be if you have a pet who is unfamiliar with the caregiver. You may be asked to crate your pet or place it into a room which won't be entered by the caregiver. This is so the caregiver is safe until the pet has time to adjust to the new person. If your caregiver is bitten by a pet, it could take up to a week for the caregiver to be able to go back to work. This is because they would have to be cleared of various diseases which an animal may carry, especially if the shots aren’t updated.

Supplies will need to be provided

If your caregiver is going to be cleaning for you, then you will need to provide cleaning supplies for light housekeeping. You will also need to make sure that the vacuum cleaner is working. Plus, if the caregiver is supplying personal care for you, then gloves should be provided. You can go over the supplies you have with the caregiver and see what added supplies might be needed.

Don’t be afraid to over-explain

Everyone likes things done differently and don't be afraid to tell your caregiver your preferences. They would rather have a clear direction then fumble around trying to get it right. Over-explaining isn't a problem; they need to know what you like, where everything is located and even how to operate different appliances.

Caregivers aren’t a cleaning service

Caregivers sign on with certain expectations of what the job will entail. The care plan which is provided outlines what they are supposed to be doing. Some caregivers can’t give injections or handle medications, so don’t ask them to break the rules. They can be there to light clean, not to do a complete spring cleaning. So, please don’t put your caregiver in an awkward position.

When you need help with aging in place, that’s when you should contact Right at Home.