The Many Benefits Of Hiring A Personal Caregiver

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.

Without a doubt people that need care are better off if they receive care in familiar surroundings, in their own homes. There are certain cases, however, where the level of care required is such that it is best provided by a specialized institution. People that suffer from potentially dangerous psychological conditions, for example, often cannot stay at home because they pose a danger to themselves or even to others.

The fact remains, however, that most people that need assistance are better off in their own homes. A private assistant, even one that lives in, is a minor imposition when compared to the trauma of having to adapt to the new rules and routines that are common in large institutions. At home the patient retains some control and people in familiar surroundings are generally more content.

It is not only elderly people that make use of the services of private assistants. Many people simply need help for a period while they are convalescing from surgery or a serious illness. Others have disabilities that make it difficult for them to move around or to perform household tasks. They are certainly better off hiring private help than depending upon family members or neighbors.

A live in private helper offer many benefits. Apart from affording the patient some measure of independence, they often play a vital role in keeping them alert and interested in their surroundings. They can provide individual attention, something that is seldom possible in institutions such as old age homes or hospitals. The families of the patient are also assured that their loved ones are in good hands.

When considering candidates for a live in position it is important to check their credentials very carefully. After all, the patient will be reliant upon this individual. There should be no criminal record and the candidate should be able to provide valid references. In most cases it is best to choose a candidate that shares interests with the patient and people of roughly the same age often establish close bonds very quickly.

A live in assistant has a very special position of trust. There has to be a written contract, however. The terms and conditions under which the assistant will perform his duties must be spelled out in detail. The benefits and remuneration of the assistant should likewise be agreed upon in writing. It may be wise to insist upon an initial try out period first.

Without a doubt, those infirm, ill or disabled people that are able to remain in familiar surroundings are better off than those that have to move to care institutions. At home one has all the familiar comforts that one is used to. A private caregiver can be a heaven sent angel that not only allow the patient to retain some measure of independence, but that also act as companion and friend.




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