How to Keep a Good Caregiver

Preserving the relationship with a good caregiver in an industry stretched thin can feel like an uphill battle. Recognizing this challenge, we turn our attention to practical strategies for navigating the understaffed home care landscape, seeking to foster durable, caring relationships.


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1. Regular Communication

Keep the lines of communication open. Make sure the caregiver understands your loved one's needs and your expectations. Regular check-ins can help identify and address any potential issues before they become bigger problems.

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2. Respect

Treat the caregiver with respect. Remember that they're professionals, and their experience and insights can be valuable. Also, consider their personal needs and boundaries.

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3. Fair Compensation

Pay the caregiver fairly. Competitive pay can encourage caregivers to stay. Research prevailing rates in your area to ensure you're offering a fair wage.

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4. Flexible Scheduling

Whenever possible, offer flexibility in scheduling. This can help the caregiver maintain a healthy work-life balance, which can ultimately result in better care for your loved one.

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5. Positive Environment

Make the caregiver feel valued and appreciated. A simple thank you can go a long way. Celebrate their achievements and consider giving occasional bonuses or gifts as a token of appreciation.

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6. Clear Expectations

Make sure you have clearly defined the job responsibilities from the outset. This will ensure that the caregiver understands what is expected of them and can prevent any misunderstanding down the line.

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7. Open to Feedback

Encourage caregivers to share their thoughts and concerns. This open dialogue can help improve the care environment and can make the caregiver feel like a valued part of the team.

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8. Conflict Resolution

Conflicts are inevitable in any working relationship. Having a plan to address conflicts constructively can help maintain a positive relationship with the caregiver. This might involve mediation, open discussions, or seeking advice from a third party professional.

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More Resources:
Supporting Caregivers | CDC
Caregivers need recognition and support to do the vital work of caring for older adults and people with disabilities or chronic health conditions.
How to Show Appreciation for your Family Caregiver
November is National Family Caregivers Month! Family caregivers make so many sacrifices that often go unseen when providing essential care for their loved ones. It is important to show how much you appreciate the work they do.
Caregiving: Care for Yourself While Caring for Others - familydoctor.org
A look at the effects being a caregiver can have on your physical and mental wellbeing and what you can do to take care of yourself
Interesting Reads - Oxford Family Care
A collection of articles, news, and opinion pieces on the family and elderly care industry.
Caught in the Middle: Life as a Sandwich Generation Caregiver
Listen to this episode from Future of Caregiving Podcast on Spotify. Welcome to this episode of our podcast where we will be speaking with Lindsay McGraw, a full-time physical therapist, and full-time caregiver. Lindsay not only manages her professional responsibilities but also juggles caring for h…