How to Establish Where Your Job's Support and Companionship Requirements End
The caregiver/client relationship is a complex one. Therefore, while providing support and companionship services, caregivers should be careful not to become too invested or feel overwhelmed by the job if it becomes emotionally demanding. The best way caregivers in Honolulu can be successful is by establishing boundaries to guide them while performing their duties. Boundaries increase the possibility of making the experience a positive one for all parties involved. Consider the following strategies for establishing boundaries with older adults or their families.
Communication Is Key
Communication is essential in establishing constructive boundaries between caregivers and older people in their care. Good communication forms the basis of understanding older adults and their boundaries, which can increase client satisfaction. Moreover, having a clear line of communication between everyone concerned relieves stress for all parties. All the three parties involved should play their roles as follows:
- One vital boundary a caregiver should communicate with the older adult and their family is availability. Discussing your availability in advance enables a stress-free atmosphere for everyone involved. As caregivers, the older adult and their families must know when you need your free time. When communicated in advance, such schedules allow for a smooth atmosphere of administering care.
- On the other hand, the older adults in care should communicate their preferences earlier to make the caregiving experience as smooth as possible. Caregivers need to know their clients' likes and dislikes to ensure they do not cross boundaries.
- Families of older adults also have a vital role to play. They can provide helpful communication about the personalities and needs of their loved ones to make caregiving easier for caregivers.
Be Realistic About Their State of Mind
The older person receiving care may not often appreciate the caregiver's help. They may also show disinterest in some activities. However, caregivers should understand the health conditions of their clients that could be causing them to have emotional issues like irritability. Caregivers should learn to take criticism positively or evaluate it to learn something new from older people.
Share Your Experience and Ask for Help
Struggling to take on the job alone without asking for assistance when you need it can cause stress, fatigue, and burnout. Feel free to ask for help from the loved one's family whenever you fall short. Besides, be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to caregiving to balance your family responsibilities. Talk to the family members about your situation and ask for help when you feel something is negatively affecting the smooth performance of your tasks.
You can also involve other caregivers and care managers to help you overcome your daily stress. Senior Helpers Moanalua-Honolulu is dedicated to supporting caregivers and provides ways for caregivers to connect and support one another. Care managers also connect with caregivers and support them when they need help.
Do Not Share Your Stresses With the Older Adult You Are Caring For
As a caregiver, remember not to discuss on-the-job stresses or problems with the older person you serve. Doing so can affect your relationship with the client and further jeopardize the smooth running of caregiving duties.
Reach Out for More Information and Support Today
For further assistance with caregiving, reach out to your care managers today. Contact us at Senior Helpers Honolulu and Fort Shafter for all your care needs.