What It Means To Be A Caregiver

According to Miriam-Wesbter the definition of a caregiver is a person who provides direct care for children, elderly people, or the chronically ill. While this may seem like a straightforward explanation, the people who make up this industry are so much more than that. So, what does it truly mean to be a caregiver? Below we will take a look at the characteristics that we believe make an exceptional caregiver.

To Be Empathetic

Empathy is an important cornerstone of being a caregiver. To be empathetic is to put yourself in someone else’s shoes for a while so you can imagine what it is someone else is going through. When you are a caregiver and are able to be empathetic as opposed to sympathetic, you are ultimately able to make better choices with your clients needs in mind. Having the ability to empathize with your client will lead to better caregiving and more compassion, as well as the capacity to be patient and strong.

To Wear Many Hats

There is a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to caregiving. You are an advocate, a friend, a cleaner, a cook, a telephone answering service, a medication dispenser, and much more. When you are a caregiver you are there to help people who can often no longer help themselves. While this may seem like a lot, everyone is different! Speak with your client and explore what they can do themselves, what they need help with and what you both could do together.

To Be Knowledgeable

It is important to note that not all caregivers are healthcare professionals. With that in mind, it is still key to know the basics when caring for someone else. Continuing education with subjects such as first aid, CPR, and distributing medications can be seen as a leg up when applying to work with an agency. As you grow in your career as a caregiver and you build your knowledge, in the end you will be seen as an asset to your company and your client.

To Be Flexible

Caregivers are often known as experts at planning ahead, whether for the next week or next few years. But sometimes life happens, and things can truly change on a dime. When you have the great skill of being flexible you benefit both yourself as well as your client and their family. You are able to have an easier transition into an abrupt change, and the family and their loved one can rest easy knowing that they will always be taken care of while you are present.

Jim Rohn once said, one person caring about another represents life’s greatest value. While being a caregiver can be stressful at times, the compassion and closeness you feel at times with your client truly makes it all worth it. Knowing that you are able to help someone along in life while helping them maintain a sense of independence, when they no longer can do so for themselves is what caregiving is all about. At CARE, Inc. we provide our direct service providers with all the tools necessary to make sure they are the best caregivers they can be to their clients. Contact us today to start your career at a company that works for you just as much as you work for us.