What are the Traits of a Quality Caregiver?

Providing care to an older adult is possibly one of the most rewarding careers one can have. Each day, you play a fundamental part in the life of a senior citizen. You help them with whatever tasks have grown to be too difficult and provide them companionship. At the end of the day, you go home knowing that you have made someone’s life easier.

Despite all the positives of the caregiving career, it can be a taxing job, and it goes without saying that this role is not for everyone. If that is the case, what are the traits of a quality caregiver?

Empathy

The crux of caregiving primarily comes down to one trait: empathy. Caregivers should be able to connect with and understand (to an extent) what their client is experiencing. It’s impossible for a caregiver to truly know what it is their client is going through, but in empathizing with them, they should be able to help.

When a client has certain troubles or discomforts, an empathetic caregiver can see where these concerns come from and address them.

Patience

There will be hurdles to overcome. At times, a client may be stubborn or uncooperative. Maybe they are frustrated by a schedule going awry, or another difficult situation pops up. During these times, it is crucial for a caregiver to remain patient. Difficult situations are only exacerbated when a caregiver expresses their irritation.

Attentiveness

A quality caregiver should be attentive to their client’s needs. It is important to make note of any physical or health changes in one’s client. It’s likely an in-home caregiver will notice them before anyone else. Discuss any concerns with the client and the family. They may want to speak to their primary care physician about them.

Caregivers should also be aware of any changes in their client’s demeanor because being a caregiver is about more than meal preparation and personal care. They should ensure their client is emotionally stable and content. This means taking the time to have conversations, as well as listening to them.

Dependability

Seniors and their families don’t want to have to worry about whether or not their in-home caregiver will show up and provide the necessary services. A caretaker must arrive precisely when they are needed so no one has to worry. This will also ensure a client feels they are important, not a burden.

Communicative

Quality communication is important in all aspects of one’s life, but especially in a caregiving relationship. Caretakers must be able to communicate details requiring their client’s plan so no confusion arises. Speaking openly, and professionally, about one’s feelings will also foster trust between the client, the family, and the caregiver.

Establishing a rapport with the client and their family will help in all aspects of the caregiving process.

Physical strength

Physical strength does not mean a caregiver has to be a skilled weight lifter. They should, however, be able to occasionally lift heavy loads. When an older adult has some physical limitations, a caregiver may have to help them into a wheelchair, adjust them in bed, and lift them somewhat.

Physical strength and endurance will help make all aspects of the caregiving job easier—even something as “simple” as carrying groceries or doing light housekeeping.

Become a Caregiver with Home Care Powered by AUAF

If you believe you hold the traits of a quality caregiver and think it may be the right career for you, contact Home Care Powered by AUAF. For more than 25 years, our staff has provided compassionate home care for seniors in the Chicago area. We offer each of our caregivers the training and support they need to produce exceptional care for each and every one of our clients.

Learn more about how to become a caregiver with us by calling 773-274-9262.

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