Why Hiring A Personal Caregiver Is Preferable To Institutionalization

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.

Without a doubt people that need care are better off if they receive care in familiar surroundings, in their own homes. There are certain cases, however, where the level of care required is such that it is best provided by a specialized institution. People that suffer from potentially dangerous psychological conditions, for example, often cannot stay at home because they pose a danger to themselves or even to others.

The fact remains, however, that most people that need assistance are better off in their own homes. A private assistant, even one that lives in, is a minor imposition when compared to the trauma of having to adapt to the new rules and routines that are common in large institutions. At home the patient retains some control and people in familiar surroundings are generally more content.

Many elderly people live happily with private assistants, but they are not the only ones that can benefit from these professional services. Disabled individuals can also continue to live a normal life, albeit with some help. Those that have undergone surgery or that have suffered from serious illnesses often need temporary help while they get back to full health. It is certainly better to convalesce at home rather than in a hospital or clinic.

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 applicants for a live in position it is vital to ask for references and to actually follow up on them. Different clients have different needs and the chosen assistant should have experience in helping in similar conditions. It will also help if the assistant is compatible with the patient. Many cities have agencies that can provide valuable assistance in finding the ideal candidate.

The fact that someone lives in the home of his client does not mean that the person concerned should be seen as a family member. There should be a contract. The contract should stipulate the duties that are to be performed by the private assistant. Matters such as remuneration, off times and personal privileges should all be agreed on from the word go. This will prevent conflict at a later stage.

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.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire