How A Personal Caregiver Can Help Improve Quality Of Life

By Lessie Kaufman


Institutions and homes caring for the elderly and for people with disabilities simply cannot cope with the demand. They do not have the resources to accept all applicants. Likewise, hospitals cannot provide beds for all those patients that need a period of convalescence. By hiring a personal caregiver it is possible to ensure that an infirm or elderly loved one receive proper care in the comfort of their own homes.

While experts agree that most patients and elderly people are better off being cared for at home, there are certain instances when institutionalization is the best or even only option. People that suffer from dementia or other conditions that require specialist care should rather be placed in an institution that is experienced in dealing with the condition. The same holds true for people suffering from constant pain.

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.

Many older people employ private assistants but they are not the only ones that benefit from this type of service. Many disabled people are able to remain active and independent because they have caring professionals that look after them. People that need to convalesce after medical interventions also prefer doing so at home rather than in a clinic or hospital.

Opting for the services of a private assistant holds many benefits for both the patient and the loved ones of the patient. The assistant can make sure that the family remains updated on the condition of the patient. He can also be extremely valuable in the role of companion. So many people, especially those that are bedridden or confined to the house are lonely.

Appointing a private assistant should be undertaken with great care. It is best to opt for someone that has interests similar to the patient. It is also vital to check that the candidate has experience in assisting people in similar situations. If medical attention will be necessary it is vital to ensure that the candidate has received appropriate training. Experts advise that it is best to make use of the services of placement agencies.

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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