With the senior population expected to grow over the next twenty years the questions that everyone is asking is what is a good caregiver? What defines a good caregiver and what qualities contribute an excellent hire? There are many criteria that you can think about when choosing the best caregiver for you. Firstly does the individual have the basic qualifications to do their job well? This means knowing that the caregiver has their valid CPR, drivers license, references, and HHA certification or other equivalent training complete. Second does that same individual have good qualities like compassion and mindfulness. Finally is the individual a professional in their field. This means wearing the proper attire, remaining calm during emergencies, knowing how to handle changes in schedules or routines, and mindfulness.
When your choosing a caregiver through a agency you have a guarantee that the individual has met the state of Ohio’s regulations to work at your home. This mean knowing for sure that the individual’s BCI background check, CPR certification, reference checks, and skills were verified. Also there is a proper attire and conduct handbook section that every caregiver reads and signs. Though an agency caregivers are required to adhere to more strict policies otherwise they lose their job. An agency also monitors performance levels and quality levels and can grant raises based on performance or fire a caregiver based on misconduct.
Other qualities that makes an individual a professional caregiver are resilience, remaining calm, being caring, compassionate, careful, mindful, prepared, patient, and smart about their workday. A perfect caregiver always knows what do to and communicates changes to management for smooth transitions in schedule and care plan. A great caregiver is patient enough to helps create good moments with the client. All caregivers are expected to help with activities like puzzles, tv, exercise, yoga, walks, and other activities. Care can be specialized when it is required; clients with Dementia or other diagnosis have specific symptoms that the caregiver has to know to handle. Finally, there is physical fitness. Some clients more than other require lifting, walking, bathing, and transferring help between bed and chair. This means that with or without a hoyer lift there can be lifting involved. A caregiver prepared for this and one who is capable for this would be a good caregiver for you.
In conclusion ensure you are choosing the best option for your needs. Take your time and interview a candidate to ensure they are a good fit for your home, family, and routine. Many agencies are willing to send caregivers to your home for an initial meeting until you feel good about your caregiver. We are also willing to send you a great, qualified, prepped, and personalized caregiver without one. At Champion Care we provide the most personalized care so we take our time with the selection process and to ensure you and the caregiver are both happy with the service.