First-time caregivers often tackle their new responsibilities with fervor out of the belief that it’s the best way to care for their senior loved ones. However, even with the best of intentions, you cannot be the only source of support for a senior who needs consistent care. When respite care becomes a necessity, it’s normal to experience feelings of guilt. Here are some effective strategies to ease your concerns during the transition.
Arrange for an Initial Meeting
Although you know the caregiver you’re leaving your loved one with has passed a background check and been professionally trained, it can be nerve-wracking to leave your loved one with a stranger. When making arrangements for respite care, request a meeting with you, your loved one, the caregiver, and the Care Manager before care services begin. Both you and your loved one will feel better about the decision to choose respite care if you both feel comfortable with the caregiver.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of senior care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Stick Around for a Visit
If your loved one is nervous or upset about having a caregiver, linger at home during the first visit. Stick around for the first few minutes the caregiver is there before gradually moving on to another area of the home. Your loved one will likely have an easier time opening up initially and feel at ease knowing you’re still around, and as you watch and hear your loved one interact with the caregiver, many of your own worries will be eased.
Practice Self-Care
There may be times when you feel as though taking time for yourself is selfish. However, caregivers who take care of their physical and mental health are better prepared to provide care to their loved ones. During your respite time, make sure to schedule health checkups, dental appointments, and other activities that are necessary for your personal comfort. Even a massage or new hairstyle can work wonders for your state of mind.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide elderly home care. San Diego families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation.
Maintain Ongoing Communication
It can be difficult not knowing what’s going on with your loved one during your time away. However, reputable home care agencies train staff to keep daily logs and communicate with the rest of the caregiving team. Make sure to keep your respite caregiver’s contact information handy, and never hesitate to call with a question or simply to check in during your time away. This will give you reassurance that your loved one is receiving high-caliber care while you tend to your other responsibilities.
In San Diego, home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. For compassionate, reliable in-home care, trust the experienced professionals from Assisting Hands Home Care. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 858-667-0811 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
