In Conversation with Felisha L. Norrington to Bring Her Insights on Caregiver Support

Caregivers are at the core of the home care dynamic as they dedicate themselves to others’ well-being. However, their own needs often go unmet.

Supporting caregivers isn’t just about their well-being but also about the quality of care they deliver. Burnout and stress are common foes – support systems like peer groups, counseling, and even access to respite care can alleviate this issue.

Further, training programs keep caregivers’ skills sharp and their knowledge current, allowing them to deliver the best possible care. But, most importantly, feeling valued and supported through these initiatives boosts morale and reduces turnover.

It translates to continued care for the elderly – a crucial factor in their recovery – and a stable workforce for agencies.

Eventually, investing in caregiver support creates a ripple effect. Empowered and healthy caregivers deliver better care, leading to improved care outcomes and the coming up of a more resilient home care industry.

To shed some light on the same, we interviewed a home care industry expert to bring her perspective on supporting caregivers.

Let’s get started with knowing what our expert thinks of the home care industry:

Question 1: What should families do when hiring a caregiver for their elderly?

Families should determine what care they need help with. Caregivers can assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, getting dressed, or getting in and out of bed. They can also assist with errands and take clients to doctor appointments.

Next, they need to decide on a budget to determine how much they can afford. Generally, the more tasks the caregiver does, the more it may cost, so you may want to target specific tasks to make it more affordable.

Lastly, perhaps most importantly, you want to check out the background of the individual you are considering hiring; ask for references. Also, if possible, allow your loved one to meet the potential caregiver and have a say in who’s hired.

Question 2: How can caregivers maintain the independence and dignity of the elderly and their families when delivering care?

Families and care recipients should be involved in all aspects of care. They should learn about families and their culture to determine the best care plan.

Every family and care recipient is different. These differences should be respected. The care recipient, if possible, should be allowed to have their wishes heard and considered when making a care plan for them.

Question 3: How can caregivers prevent burnout and manage their work-personal life?

Caregiving is a huge responsibility and a labor of love. Most caregivers keep their needs on the back burner so their care recipient’s needs are met. However, to be effective in your caregiver role, YOU MUST take care of yourself.

It may be challenging, but do not neglect your health (go to your doctor appointments too), and take out time to rest and just breathe. Go for walks, read books, meditate.

Question 4: How can I help my aging parents from afar?

Suppose you need to care for your parents at home while afar. Have a trusted family member, friend, or professional caregiver keep a check on your parents to ensure they have a good quality of life living independently.

Even if your parent is in an assisted living or long-term care facility, you can still have a professional or family/friend caregiver to check on them to monitor their care.

Question 5: What advice do you give to new family caregivers?

Caregiving is a journey, so do not feel you must have all the answers. You will not. Give yourself grace and be patient. Also, ASK FOR HELP! You do not have to do this alone!

In Conclusion

Caregiving is a balancing act that demands grit, empathy, and perseverance.

While providing for the specific needs of our elderly, caregivers need to ensure that they maintain their independence and dignity and involve them in decision-making.

However, while following this route, caregivers must remember to look after themselves. To prevent burnout, strike a healthy balance between personal responsibilities and caregiving chores.

You are welcome to request help. Give yourself a break, and remember that you are not traveling alone.