Orienting the Home Care Assistant

Staff Writers

Letting the person you hire see what a typical day in the life of your mom or dad is like is helpful--not only for the caregiver, but for the recipient of that care. Everyone will be more comfortable and it will make adjusting to someone in the house easier.

It's probably best to put things in writing, but also take the time to spend the day and go through the routine. Acquaint the home care worker with:

• Who to contact in the case of an emergency
• Where supplies are (medical, clothing, cooking, cleaning)
• Where the appliances are and how to use them
• Keys and alarm systems

Also, show the home care worker:

• Likes and dislikes of the care recipient
• Dietary needs
• Mobility issues
• Medications: dosage and how to order
• How to deal with behavior/emotional problems

Right at Home is a national organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for those we serve. We fulfill that mission through a dedicated network of locally owned providers of in-home care and assistance services.