“Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end.”  Robin Sharma

Change is uncomfortable, but sometimes it is necessary. If you have an elderly loved one at home chances are, they might need care and help around the house. There will come a time where the present caregiver administering services might need a few days off or might want to change jobs or you are simply looking to start service by bringing in a caregiver. This calls for bringing in another caregiver to your home and some of the seniors might struggle to adjust to the change. It is normal for them to struggle with change, because don’t we all? There are explanations as to why this happens, the elderly client will typically get used to one or several people that work with them. This provides consistency which makes them feel at ease and comfortable. When this cycle is broken, it brings disorder and they might feel out of sorts.

Humble Home Care Services has been providing compassionate care for well over half a decade and has extensive experience in staffing and client relations. We discuss some tips that will prepare seniors for change in staffing:

• Start the conversation about transition early

Have a meaningful conversation with your elderly loved one about staffing change or whether you are looking to start service with a new caregiver. This will give them time to mentally process change and come to terms with it. Explain why you believe it is necessary to bring someone in to assist them and make their lives easier.

• Overlap the caregiving service

If there’s a caregiver present, it might be a good idea to bring in the new caregiver and have them shadow the existing one in order to learn what your loved one loves and likes. It gives the new caregiver a chance to get acclimated to the environment and it will give your loved one plenty of time to get used to the change.

• Let them have a say

Ask your loved ones what their preferences are in a caregiver and let them have a say in the decision process. This could also be an opportunity to ask them what kind of help they need around the house. Involving your loved ones will make them feel appreciated and well taken care of.

• Maintain the same habits

Have a schedule and a list of what your loved one does. Relay this information to the new caregiver during the orientation period. Having your loved one follow the same routine will help them maintain the same habits and the transition will be much easier.

• Do not be overprotective

It is common to have the feeling you need to shield your loved one. It is understandable you are opening up your home which is a sanctuary to a stranger, but do not let this be a hindrance in bringing in a new caregiver.

• Connect with the caregiver

Lastly and most importantly, please make an effort to connect with the caregiver. This step is very critical since it will establish trust between both parties. Get to know the caregiver and what they feel comfortable doing and likewise have the caregiver know you and your loved one.

If you are looking to get services, Humble Home Care Services will do a free Home Consultation, please call (978) 764 5296 (Available 24/7).