In 1997, Judith Kelly began caregiving for a woman a few blocks away from her home. Throughout her journey, she learned that being a caregiver is a full-time job that one couldn’t do it half-heartedly—it isn’t simple and demands one’s full attention. Judith Kelly prioritized her patient’s independence by finding ways and daily living aids so that she could do basic tasks such as putting on shoes by herself to feel capable. It was difficult for Judith Kelly to see her patient become incontinent; from changing her patient’s adult diapers multiple times a day and bedding to maintaining her patient’s good hygiene. For her, it was emotionally and physically straining but at the end of the day, it was worth it because of the smiles and laughter she received in return. Judith Kelly saw that part of her life as an amazing learning opportunity and considers caregivers as unsung heroes who are angels in disguise.
Due to our world being dynamic, caregiving has been evolving and is profoundly different now compared to the past. Nowadays, families are spread out and certain relationships are quite different which means providing care and support for your loved ones is also different. This makes caregiving essential, especially for seniors, and gives opportunities for dedicated caregivers around the world.
What do Caregivers Provide?
Caregivers provide a plethora of care and support for their clients or loved ones, ranging from emotional support to physical support. These acts of service are beneficial for seniors who require assistance.
Companionship
When people hear the word caregiver, the majority will immediately think of physical assistance but that’s not all caregivers can provide. Caregivers can provide companionship to seniors and lessen their loneliness. Aging can become lonely but having someone to talk to keeps seniors engaged and reduces the feeling of being alone.
Assistance with Daily Tasks
Tasks such as taking a quick stroll for sunlight in the morning, cooking meals, cleaning clutter, and assisting with walking around the house are a few of the services that caregivers can provide their clients, making every day a little bit easier for them.
Maintaining Good Hygiene
A person's age and illness may decrease their ability to take care of themselves, which can lead to several health problems. This can be a burden for the person, and their caregiver can help to mitigate these problems. Caregivers can help with bathing, toileting, dressing, and grooming to help the client maintain a clean and healthy personal hygiene routine. This will help the client physically and may also lift their spirits.
Medical Management
Caregivers can assist their clients with keeping up with their medication and other medical tasks such as inserting catheters or injecting the medicine. Caregivers can also aid in setting up doctor’s appointments and taking their clients for checkups and such.
Aiding with Socialization
There is evidence that engaging in activities with others can improve overall health. Caregivers could find a community arts program for seniors, invite friends and relatives to visit or go out to eat together. Patients who can receive care in their own homes can welcome guests, invite family overnight, and have private conversations without interruption.
Maintaining a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for seniors to be healthy and caregivers can aid clients with groceries and preparing or cooking their meals. Caregivers can assist their senior clients with preparing healthy meals and snacks that are low in saturated fat, sodium, and sugar.
Caregivers are Important
Caregivers are beneficial for seniors whose loved ones can’t tend to them 24/7 or for seniors who find it hard to do tasks independently. They are continuously changing people’s lives every day and are seen as heroes by many.
In Need of a Caregiver?
If you're considering in-home senior care services, Unified Pledge Home Health provides a FREE consultation. Ask all your questions and discuss the assistance your loved one may prefer.
A reputable home health agency will also perform a complementary in-home care assessment. This is conducted by a registered nurse. With this assessment, you can decide what's best for your aging parent.
Hiring professionals from Unified Pledge comes with the following advantages:
Level II FBI background checks of all staff
Driving history checks
Constant communication to patients, family, and care team
Registered Nurse supervision is ongoing with every care plan
Contact us today for a FREE consultation by a Supervisory Nurse at 561-910-8770.