Top 5 Questions To Ask When Hiring A Caregiver For Your Loved One
While you may desire to provide for all the needs of your aging parent, it may not always be possible. You may have to work or take your children to after school activities. Hiring a caregiver is an excellent solution, as you can arrange to have the worker take over the hours you are otherwise engaged. When going through the hiring process, it is important to ask the right questions so you employ a trustworthy individual who matches the personality of your loved one.
What Tasks Are You Willing to Perform?
In addition to seeing to your loved ones physical needs, you may require some extra duties be performed, such as light housekeeping. Knowing what tasks the caregiver is willing to perform can help you narrow down the candidates. Ask yourself if you need the caregiver to administer medications or transport your aging parent to and from doctor appointments. Always be upfront with the person you are interviewing so that he or she knows what they are agreeing to.
Are You Certified in First Aid?
While caregivers are not necessarily registered nurses, you still want them to be certified in first aid so they know what to do in the event of an emergency. Most ambulance corps and some hospitals offer this type of class for a fee. If the candidate meets all of your other requirements, you may wish to hire them with the stipulation that they will complete first aid training by a certain date. You may even agree to pay the fee so they can attend the classes.
What Is Your Previous Work Experience?
When examining a potential caregiver's previous work experience, look at how long he or she stayed with each previous client. If the person bounced from patient to patient, that may say something about the caregiver's work ethic. Always get a few references as well to make sure the person is reliable and friendly.
How Do You Respond When a Patient's Mood Changes?
Depending on the illness your loved one is suffering from, he or she may not always be happy and cheerful. It is important to hire a caregiver who knows how to handle a client's mood swings. Perhaps the caregiver has experience reducing distractions and redirecting the senior's attention, or they are gifted with patience and able to listen to the patient's needs while communicating clearly so that the patient feels heard.
Would You Be Willing to Keep a Daily Record?
Should you employ a caregiver while you're at work, you'll want to know how your parent was cared for while you were gone. A daily record or log book is a great solution. The caregiver can list any meals and snacks served and at what times. He or she can also record baths, outings, and chores, such as washing the dishes after lunch. The daily record also provides accountability and is beneficial to all parties involved.
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