A professional caregiver is a paid resource from the health care team who assists in administering the physical & mental welfare of the elderly patient. The principal task of the professional caregiver is to ensure that the patient is being properly taken care as per laid down systems and protocols.
Being a professional caregiver is a tough job for the reason that caring for the aged takes a lot of patience, understanding and time. It comprises a great deal of responsibilities particularly while doing it from somebody else’s residence
At present, professional caregivers of today assume a variety of roles in performing an effective health care. These are just a few of the many roles and responsibilities of a caregiver towards elderly care –
Roles of caregivers:
As Counselor: the caregiver must learn how to talk and listen to the elder’s feelings and give counseling if the need arises. Acquainting the elder in the surroundings will diminish the feeling of insecurity.
As Educator, the caregiver informs the patient on information pertaining to healthful practices of everyday life, assists with the treatment to avoid further diseases or illnesses that may occur. They also educate the aged on how to care for his personal hygiene.
As Organizer/Coordinator, the caregiver is in direct contact with the patient and the whole health care system, ensuring proper coordination in the total wellness of an elderly.
Professional Caregiving is a job like any other, but to choose a career dedicated to serving the elderly requires the highest level of dedication and compassion.