The idea of needing additional help with daily tasks can be tough to adjust to, especially for seniors who have tried to maintain their independence. Because of aging, illness, or other changes, seniors may need even more help than they expect. Live-in care can be difficult to talk about with aging adults, but taking the time to adjust to the idea and to implement the process correctly helps a lot.
Talk about the Idea Early
The biggest tip for adjusting to the idea of any type of home care service is to talk about the idea as soon as it becomes apparent that seniors need additional help. Keeping seniors involved in the conversation allows them to have a say in what happens with their own care. This is also a chance for aging adults to share how they’re feeling about needing additional help.
Create a Welcoming Space
Live-in care providers do live with the seniors in their homes. That means that they need a dedicated space for themselves that is comfortable and private. Having their own space gives the caregiver a location to rest and recharge so that they can be ready to tackle their duties the next time they are back to caring for the senior they’re helping.
Gradually Introduce Caregivers to the Home
Abrupt changes just aren’t fun for anybody, but especially for aging adults who need help from elder care providers. An easy way to avoid abrupt changes is to gradually introduce new live-in care providers by having them visit a few times a week for shorter sessions. As those caregiving sessions go well, caregivers can start to be there more often. Eventually, caregivers can move in and be there as often as seniors need them to be.
Set Clear Expectations
Understanding what to expect helps families, seniors, and the live-in care providers have the best possible experience. Professional caregivers help families to establish a care plan, which includes assessing the senior’s needs, outlining daily routines, and revisiting the plans periodically to keep up with changes. Clearing up any misconceptions or misunderstandings before care begins reduces the risk that seniors refuse care altogether.
Be Patient and Flexible
With any big changes, there are going to be times when the transition goes better than at other times. Adjusting to something like live-in care support takes some time. Seniors and professional caregivers have to have time to get to know each other and navigate new routines. Care plans often need adjustment, even after careful assessment. Not all solutions work perfectly for every situation right out of the gate. Patience and flexibility allow everyone to work through those growing pains.
Transitioning to live-in care is a big step for everyone involved. There are a lot of changes that come along with this type of care and families need to know what to expect as they help seniors navigate these difficulties. Professional caregivers offer seniors and family members support on a schedule that works for them, allowing everyone to get the help they need.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Live-In Care in Islip, NY, please contact the caring staff at Help at Home today at (631) 859-3435
Help at Home is a top provider of home care services in Islip, Babylon, Huntington, Smithtown, Brookhaven, Hempstead & Oyster Bay, and surrounding areas on Long Island & NYC. We serve Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties.
Whether you or a loved one is recuperating from an illness or a senior requiring care, we can help. Help at Home is committed to providing quality home care at affordable rates. Helping a patient remain in the comfort and security of their home is our goal. We are the best alternative to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Help at Home caregivers
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