About In-home Caregivers

In-home caregivers are an essential part of life for people who cannot care for themselves. They are also beneficial to the family of the patient who may not be able to give the care required. The monetary rewards are not high in this type of position, but rewards of a more personal nature can be found for the right person.

Function

• In-home caregivers provide care to the elderly or disabled in the comfort of the patients' home. Duties may include housekeeping, preparing meals, feeding and laundry. Some meals may be specific to special diets according to the health and nutrition needs of the patient. Other duties may include dressing, grooming and bathing.

Types

• Home care aides can provide extra help in and round the home. The skills required for this position are usually low since the care given is not health related. The services provided are usually of a more personal nature and not medically related. Home health aides can provide more in-depth medical care under the supervision of a medical or nursing staff. Duties may include the dosing of prescription medication, checking vital signs and helping with physical exercise and therapy. This type of position will require more training than a regular aide.

Misconceptions

• A nursing or other medical degree is not necessary to be an in-home caregiver. Since some positions only require basic care and not medical care, some states only require short on-the-job training. Other states may require more formal education from courses that can be found at a local community college or health care agency.

Benefits

• Perhaps the most beneficial aspect of being an in-home caregiver is the satisfaction that is received from helping someone in need. Most patients are more happier and more comfortable being cared for in the comfort of their own home. In-home caregivers can give the patient the care and help that is needed without requiring the patient to be in a special care facility.

Warning

• In-home caregivers are usually required to work hard with low pay. Some positions may require heavy lifting if the patient requires help in and out of bed. Patients may be cantankerous or depressed due to their physical limitations. Also, some homes where an in-home caregiver works may be dreary and depressing. Each position will vary on a case-by-case basis.

Considerations

• A person who is considering employment in the in-home care industry should be someone who is good with people, patient and understanding and is not afraid of hard work. He should consider the job for the satisfaction that it will bring and not for the pay, which may be low. A responsible and cheerful disposition are also important qualities for someone looking to enter this field of care.