You’ve begun your adventure as a senior caregiver in Feasterville, PA. Everyone wants to make a great first impression. So what are some suggestions to make sure everything goes smoothly? Let’s discuss 7 expert tips for success as a senior caregiver in Feasterville, PA!
The most important part of the process is knowing what you’re walking into (with footnotes). Aurora Home Health gives you the training, tools, and particulars you require. As our staff member, there is no question too big or too small. Express your concerns so we can answer them.
7 Expert Tips for First-Day Success as a Senior Caregiver
1) A Plan of Care with Journal
In caregiving, the Plan of Care for any individual is like a blueprint. It outlines your roles and responsibilities. It should include a list of medical providers and contact numbers, as well as those for the family. Now you have a rough outline.
Talk to your supervisor and make some notes. Aurora goes into a home to evaluate everything from safety to personality types. You can organize this information however you wish. You can add to it later, once you get to know your family better.
2) Trust your Qualities
In order for you to make a real difference in people’s lives, caregivers have specific qualities. They include
- Compassion,
- Awareness,
- Observation,
- Communication,
- Time management,
- Organization
- Patience
- Resourcefulness
If you didn’t already display these qualities, you would not have been hired for the job. Trust in yourself and use your strengths before you even step through the door.
3) Open-Mindedness
You are not going to get to know everything about your individual and their family in one day, let alone weeks. So keep your mind open and alert. If something strikes you as important, take note of it and come back to it after your shift.
Think of yourself like a student in your client’s classroom. Do a lot more listening than you do talking. Show warmth and empathy, but never lose that edge of professionalism. And always remember the patient is not defined by their disease or limitation.
4) Sensitivity to Family Dynamics
Every home has a specific vibe to it. From day one, you will need to adjust accordingly. One family member might be thrilled to see you, whereas another doesn’t notice you at all. Some may quarrel over whether in-home assistance is even needed.
It is not your job to “fix” their problems (you can’t). Rather, you learn, with time, how to navigate all the interactions and personalities you encounter with grace and composure. Maintain boundaries with privacy as well.
Rapport building is essential.
5) Ask Questions
If there’s a way to have a “sit down” on day one with the individual and their family, this could prove invaluable. Ask about the needs they face, how you can make their life better, and their expectations about your services. Iron out the bumps right away.
You are likely going to receive questions in return about your family, children, why you chose this career, etc. It’s up to you as to what you want to answer, but give your client a small window into who you truly are. Otherwise, they’ll always feel like you’re a stranger.
6) Plan Ahead: Expect the Unexpected
Day one can go smoothly, or chaos could erupt. It is just the nature of the job (and life, for that matter). Creating a calendar for the month on the first day gives you some structure. Ask for a tour of the house, checking for necessary supplies. Start a shopping list. Always be prepared.
7) Feedback
Before your shift ends on that first day, ask for feedback from the family and client. A simple question like, “how do you feel things went?” will suffice. Also, check to see if there are any last-minute tasks that will tie up the day in a bow!
Working for Aura At Home
Our company is always on the lookout for talent. If you think you’d like to start a career focused on in-home caregiving, we have an application form online. You can also use the contact number at our Feasterville, PA office 215-354-4444, or email info@auroraathome.com.
