One of the great things about being a caregiver is that no two days are the same. The variety of ways I get to interact with clients is a major attraction to the job. So what is it that fills me with energy and enables me to love my work caring for people? Here are a few of the things that fill my day as a caregiver.
Planning Care
When we start out working with clients it is vital to assess their needs. We also notice little things we can do that they had not considered. For example, a client may ask a caregiver to help with personal care. Based on what we notice we may recommend support with light housework to prevent them falling at home. We plan in partnership with the client and their family. Care can be leveled up or down depending on need.
Supporting People to Stay Independent in Their Homes
When we begin working with clients it is vital to assess their needs. We also need to be mindful of little things we can do that they had not considered. For example, a client might want a caregiver to help with personal care. We can suggest some extra support with light housework to prevent them falling. We plan in partnership with the client and their family.
Providing Personal Care
Most of my work centers around personal care. It helps our clients maintain their dignity and stay independent. We can do anything from support with a shower once or twice a week to assisting with a shave. We plan care with our clients and help where required.
Shopping, Light Housework and Cooking
Most people think we only get involved with personal care but our remit is a lot broader. We can run to the shops to pick up groceries or a prescription. Cooking and preparing a simple meal is another skill which is helpful when our clients cannot do this for themselves. We can also do light housework such as changing the bed sheets, doing laundry, or light cleaning to support clients stay in their homes.
Good Conversations
One of the favorite parts of my caregiver job are the wonderful conversations with clients. I love to learn about their lives and have had so many interesting people to care for over the years. It is a real privilege to meet our clients and get to know them as people.
A Wider Team
I value my colleagues and work as part of a wider team. This enables me to get support and help when I need it but to also work with experts to plan care for clients when needed. These are a few of the things I do as a caregiver and why I have the best job in the world.
