How A Personal Caregiver Can Help Improve Quality Of Life

By Lessie Kaufman


There are numerous people that need some assistance on a temporary or long term basis to deal with day to day responsibilities. Many elderly people, for example, cannot drive any longer while others need help with certain physical tasks. Many patients need to convalesce at home and need some assistance. Some disabled people, too, cannot do everything for themselves. In many cases these needs can be satisfied by a personal caregiver.

There is no doubt that most people that need care are better off receiving such care at their own homes. There are instances, however, when this is simply not practical. Those suffering from debilitating conditions that cause them to pose a danger to themselves and others are better cared for in an institution that is experienced in dealing with people suffering from such conditions.

The biggest percentage of people that need help are not a danger to anyone. They will benefit greatly from being able to receive care and attention in the comfort of their own homes. Familiar surroundings are comforting and patients tend to be more content when they are able to determine their own routines. A live in private assistant is only a minor inconvenience when compared with the inconveniences necessitated by living in institutions.

Many older people employ private assistants but they are not the only ones that benefit from this type of service. Many disabled people are able to remain active and independent because they have caring professionals that look after them. People that need to convalesce after medical interventions also prefer doing so at home rather than in a clinic or hospital.

Opting for the services of a private assistant holds many benefits for both the patient and the loved ones of the patient. The assistant can make sure that the family remains updated on the condition of the patient. He can also be extremely valuable in the role of companion. So many people, especially those that are bedridden or confined to the house are lonely.

When considering applicants for a live in position it is vital to ask for references and to actually follow up on them. Different clients have different needs and the chosen assistant should have experience in helping in similar conditions. It will also help if the assistant is compatible with the patient. Many cities have agencies that can provide valuable assistance in finding the ideal candidate.

The fact that someone lives in the home of his client does not mean that the person concerned should be seen as a family member. There should be a contract. The contract should stipulate the duties that are to be performed by the private assistant. Matters such as remuneration, off times and personal privileges should all be agreed on from the word go. This will prevent conflict at a later stage.

It is hard when one reaches a stage when you cannot tend to all your own needs. Many people in such circumstances resent the fact that they are forced to rely on others to help them. It is far better, however, to enjoy the privilege of a private assistant as opposed to being submitted to the rigors and rules of a formal institution.




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