Be careful who “cares” for your loved one. PART II
#6. THE CAREGIVER SHOWS UP AT THE HOME BUT DOESN’T KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON
Every new caregiver needs to be introduced to the Client by their manager. The “Caregiver Orientation” is
when the caregiver is introduced to the home environment (care plan, danger spots, Client preferences, daily
routine, the location of the supplies required to do their job). It is also when they are introduced to the Client.
Most companies do not do this “Caregiver Orientation.”
#7. THE CAREGIVER IS NOT SUPERVISED / FAMILY IS NOT INVOLVED
Regular supervision in the home and at the office by a qualified staff member (both announced and
unannounced) is required to maintain a safe and productive environment. Regular and frequent interaction
with the senior and their family will uncover issues before they have a chance to develop into problems.
#8. THERE IS NO CONTINUING EDUCATION OR UPDATING OF CAREGIVER SKILLS
Technologies, methods and procedures constantly change. Continuously updating caregiving skills through
teaching and testing, administered by an RN is important to keeping caregivers in top shape. For most
companies this is non-existent or “hit-or-miss”.
#9. THERE ARE NO DAILY PROGRESS NOTES/DOCUMENTATION OF ACTIVITY
Daily care activity and unusual occurrences need to be documented for everyone to review. Many companies do not require daily written documentation of activity in the home (Daily Progress Notes).
#10. THERE IS NO WRITTEN CARE PLAN
A written care plan needs to always be available in the home. The Care Plan should document the needs of the Client and the requirements of the caregiver and must be approved and signed by a medical professional.
Enjoy the peace of mind knowing you or your loved one is cared for properly by taking some basic precautions in the early stages of investigation.
REMEMBER: If you are homebound, need the “aid and attendance” of another person to assist with your activities of daily living and a veteran or surviving spouse of a veteran there may be financial assistance for your caregiver costs available.
Let me know your particular situation and see if there is help available.