Being a caregiver is a job best suited for people with big hearts. Giving compassionate care to those you work with is a natural part of your duties. Keeping things professional, though, can be more difficult in this field. Many caregivers struggle to understand where the job begins and ends when they forge such strong bonds with the seniors they serve. For everyone's best interest, here's a guide from Senior Helpers Greater OKC on how to establish where your job's companionship requirements end.
Understanding Boundaries and Companionship Requirements
Essentially, the crux of this issue is about boundaries. Understanding boundaries and how to set them will allow you to remain professional with those in your care while protecting both of you. If you aren't used to doing this, there are a few things you can do to start:
Read and Understand Your Duties
As a senior helper, you have a very clear list of duties to perform for the older people in your care. If you're ever unclear if something you're being asked to do is within the scope of your duties, simply review the guidelines set out by your employer. In most cases, this should clear things up, but asking someone above you can also help.
Communicate Clearly
Misunderstandings can cause a lot of issues, especially when you're the primary caregiver for another person. In all your interactions with those in your care, try to communicate clearly your companionship requirements in ways that are easy to understand. If someone asks you something that's not within the scope of your duties or that you don't feel comfortable doing, make this clear to them.
Learn When to Back Away
Senior care is a very emotionally demanding job that leads many to burnout. This is bad for you and those in your care, as you'll be harming yourself while providing inadequate care. In some cases, you simply have to take a step back and collect yourself. Whether that's taking a few days off, cutting back on when you work for a time, or simply finding a new way to destress at home, learning when you're nearing your breaking point will help you care for yourself and others.
Learn More About Your Companionship Requirements
Learning to set boundaries can be a tricky thing, especially if your job is all about helping others. However, it's a necessary skill, both to protect yourself and those in your care. If you're struggling to understand where your job duties begin and end, just remember:
- Understand what's required of you when on the job so that you don't take on too much or pass your own boundaries.
- Communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings and make yourself clear.
- Take time to let yourself rest so you can continue to provide the type of care older individuals deserve.
Get Help With Senior Helpers Greater OKC
As we age, we may sometimes need additional help in our day-to-day life. There's no shame in this, especially when the quality of in-home care has risen so much over the years. Senior Helpers of Greater OKC is one of your best options for comprehensive care for older individuals. Our staff can assist people with their daily tasks while providing companionship for those in their twilight years. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you or a loved one needs it - get in touch today!