How to Prepare for a Live-In Carer
We all understand that inviting a live-in carer into your home is a big decision, one that requires careful planning and preparation. It’s about creating a welcoming environment that fosters trust, comfort, and a smooth transition for everyone involved. To help you navigate this process, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a successful start:
How to prepare before the carer arrives:
- Communicate openly: Discuss expectations, routines, and preferences with your loved one and the care provider.
- Declutter and clear space: Create a dedicated room for the carer with basic furniture and storage. Ensure easy access to the bathroom and common areas.
- Organise essentials: Stock the kitchen with familiar food and beverages, provide towels and linens for the carer’s room, and set up communication tools – there should be a landline and Wi-Fi.
- Prepare introductions: Introduce your loved one to the carer beforehand, if possible, through photos or video calls.
- Sign off on the Care Plan: Ensure that you have shared as much information as possible about the person who is to receive care. If they are able, ensure that they have had sight of the care plan, have been involved as much as possible and are in agreement with the content. Apart from doing things in a tailored way, the detail you provide will support the carer to build a good connection faster and to the benefit of all.
- Plan for pets: If there are any present, discuss pet care routines and ensure their comfortable interaction with the carer.
How to prepare once the carer arrives:
- Welcome and tour: Take the time to show the carer around the house, introduce them to routines, explain appliance usage and where items are stored. Make sure that the carer knows where the stop cock is and the fuse board.
- Set boundaries: Discuss privacy preferences, guest policies, and acceptable living spaces. There may be certain rooms that you do not want the carer to enter and are not necessary in the care required.
- Establish communication channels: Agree on methods for communication, including daily schedules, reporting procedures, and emergency protocols. Your carer will need to complete daily care notes each day and record any medication administered. The care provider should explain this and also how you can access this information.
- Trial period: Consider a short trial period to allow everyone to adjust and address any initial concerns. If you or your loved one has never encountered live in care before, be aware that it can take a few weeks to settle down, as everyone gets used to having a new face around the house. It is worth pushing through this time, as once things have settled down, everyone starts to feel the benefits.
Ongoing support
- Maintain open communication: Regularly check in with your loved one and the carer, addressing any concerns promptly. Make sure that you keep the care provider in the picture. Don’t feel it’s up to you to handle awkward issues – that is what a managed service is for. Remember, if you don’t make the company aware, they won’t be able to support you, so give them a fair chance to help and improve things.
- Provide feedback: Offer constructive feedback to the care provider to ensure ongoing quality care.
- Foster respect and trust: Treat the carer with respect and courtesy, acknowledging their valuable role in your loved one’s well-being.
- Celebrate success: Acknowledge milestones and positive interactions to build strong relationships.
Additional tips
- Prepare an “information binder”: Compile important documents, medical records, and emergency contact information in a readily accessible binder.
- Personalise the space: Encourage the carer to bring familiar items to personalise their room and foster a sense of comfort. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that they should only ever bring sufficient belongings for the duration of the stay and it should not exceed one suitcase. This personalisation might be a blanket or a cushion from home, not pieces of furniture!
- Plan activities and outings: Include the carer in social activities and outings whenever possible to create a more inclusive environment. This will help build rapport between all of you.
- Remember, it’s a journey: Be patient and understanding; adapting to a live-in carer takes time for everyone involved.
By following these tips and fostering an open and collaborative approach, you can create a welcoming environment for your live-in carer and ensure a smooth transition for your loved one. Remember, their presence is a valuable source of support and assistance, and with careful preparation, you can all embark on a journey of comfort, trust, and shared responsibility.
Our live-in care services
Here at Ashridge Home Care, we offer tailored live-in care services to meet the unique needs of our clients. We’ve been rated Outstanding in Caring by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), a testament to our exceptional team of carers, carefully chosen by us.
Our dedicated carers provide access to round-the-clock support, ensuring your loved one can continue to lead a happy and independent life. From companionship and personal care to shopping and housekeeping, we’ll take the time to understand your loved one’s unique requirements. Get in touch with our team today for a friendly chat.