Johns Hopkins Medicine explains a caregiver as a “person who tends to the needs or concerns of a person with short- or long-term limitations due to illness, injury, or disability.” An in-home caregiver can offer a person experiencing problems with the tasks of daily living that wishes to remain at home the support needed for them to continue to reside at home. Although it can be difficult to face the fact that hiring a caregiver may be necessary, for many the challenging part comes after arriving at the conclusion that a home caregiver is needed when you are faced with an onslaught of decisions. Simplify the process for yourself with the following three tips:
- Narrow down your options by homing in on your needs: Caregivers can assist with a wide range of tasks (e.g., preparing meals, managing medications, helping you bathe or dress, doing laundry or light housework, changing bed linens, etc.) so it is important to identify your needs and expectations. Creating a clear and thorough job description can help attract caregivers that are able to accommodate your specific needs and align with your expectations.
- Consider the cost: Hiring caregivers can be expensive, so make sure to know your budget. In 2020, for example, average costs for in-home caregiver services ranged from $17 to $33 per hour in the United States.
- Conduct multiple in-depth interviews: Asking an array of questions (e.g., about experience, credentials, etc.) during the interview process can help you find someone responsible, trustworthy, and compassionate. It is also important to do a background check and call all of their references. Experts suggest that when hiring a caregiver, it is helpful to have at least two interviews and a trial period:
- A brief screening interview over the phone to verify they meet basic requirements
- An in-person interview to meet candidates who pass the phone screening
- Arrange a trial period before offering a permanent position
The trial period gives you an opportunity to observe how they handle the caregiving tasks, and it also gives the caregiver a chance to make sure the job meets their expectations.
In-home caregivers can help you continue to live independently despite physical or cognitive challenges. They afford you with the ability to live in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by your most cherished possessions, while ensuring your health and safety.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
