The Many Benefits Of Hiring A Personal Caregiver

By Lessie Kaufman


There has been a marked increase in the number of people that need some form of assistance in order to lead their day to day lives. The average age of the population in many developed countries is steadily rising. Many older people need medical or personal help on a regular basis. Institutions caring for people with disabilities or the terminally ill are also under increasing pressure. In many cases the ideal solution is a personal caregiver.

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.

However, the vast majority of people that need some form of help will do better if they are able to stay in their own homes. A private helper will certainly mean that some changes will have to be made but the disruption will not be as traumatic as relocation to an institution will be. The client will be able to stay in control of his own routines and preferences.

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.

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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