When it comes to staying at home with a loved one who needs assistance or just some extra socialization, a good plan should be developed for all parties involved. Sometimes loved ones need help at almost all hours of the day and it can be difficult when you have to go to work and do things other than take care of a family member.
Although the idea at first might receive some resistance, getting an in-home caregiver, even for a short amount of time can go a long way. Private-duty, in- home caregivers can provide assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, going grocery shopping and assisting your loved one in any way needed. This will allow the family member a little time themselves.
The help an in-home caregiver can provide a family is valuable to everyone involved in the situation. Caregivers are flexible and can come in whenever you need them. Appointments may be a couple hours a day to simply run errands, or someone who is going to stay through the night so you can get some sleep.
The first step will be to make sure that your family member is comfortable with the idea of having someone in their home to assist them. Once services are started your family member should feel at ease. After a short adjustment period, having a caregiver will go a long way in assisting your loved one and giving you piece of mind. Our experience has shown that even as little as eight hours a week of assistance can help keep seniors at home where they belong.
Sally Dahlem is the co-owner of Home by Choice, which is a licensed home-health agency that specializes in private duty care. She has more than 25 years of experience in Gainesville healthcare services including home care, skilled nursing homes and assisted living facilities.