Live-in carers can provide your loved one with the support they need to live safely and independently while also giving you peace of mind, knowing that they are well cared for. However, it can be a big adjustment to have someone else living in your home, and it can be not easy to let go of some of your independence. So here’s how you can make it a positive experience.
Communicate with your loved one
When communicating with your loved one about their new live-in carer, it is important to be honest, positive, and understanding. If you are hiring a live-in caregiver for the first time, introduce the idea over a series of smaller conversations and be prepared to listen to and address their concerns. Discuss the duties and responsibilities to be carried out by the live-in carer and if your loved one will be comfortable with this necessary invasion of their privacy. However, reassure them that the carer will respect their privacy and that they can set boundaries.
Gather information to share with your carer
Information sharing is an essential part of providing safe and effective care. Carers need information to make decisions and help the person they care for. For example, live-in carers often liaise with medical professionals, sort appointments, and spot changes in symptoms. You can gather information like the care receiver’s daily routine, the caregiver’s duties, numbers for doctors and emergency contacts, etc. Anyhow, you have the right to choose how much information you share with others. You may also set up a non-disclosure agreement with your live-in carer to safeguard your private or personal details.
Secure sensitive personal items
You should secure sensitive personal items when hiring a live-in carer to maintain privacy and dignity. You can secure these items in a locked desk or file cabinet, your locked bedroom, or a safe deposit box. Most caregivers are honest and sensitive. However, it would be best if you did not leave cash and valuables lying around. People with dementia are prone to forgetfulness and confusion. They may lose things and unfairly blame the carer. You can also secure sensitive personal items and documents for everyone’s legal benefit.
Prepare a private room
When preparing a private room for a live-in carer, it is important to consider the individual’s needs and preferences. A private room for a live-in carer should be comfortable, clean, and have adequate heating. It must be clutter-free, have a comfortable bed, and with adequate storage spaces. The room should be located in a quiet area of the house where the carer can have some privacy. The live-in carers room should have access to a bathroom, running water, and a kitchen. You may also ask the carer what they need and want in their room beforehand.
Have clear expectations
Remember that the caregiver is an employee, not a family member or friend. So you will have to respect some boundaries when providing or asking about personal life aspects. Agree on what is expected of the caregiver from the start and determine the roles and responsibilities for everyone on the care team. You must also set a clear schedule of tasks and duties expected of them. Set and uphold standards of work and behaviour consistently, and treat everyone equally. Confirm the person who will be your main contact for all concerns.
Legal and Financial Considerations
When hiring a live-in carer privately, you act as their employer. This means you have certain legal responsibilities, such as putting together an employment contract, paying their salary, insurance coverage and taxes, etc. You may also need some guidance on necessary legal documentation like contracts, medical power of attorney, etc., that you must have in place when hiring a live-in carer. The employment contract should include the specific tasks the carer is to provide, the place of work, working hours, rate of pay, duration of employment, and holiday entitlement, among other things. You may also include employer’s liability insurance and public liability insurance in your household insurance policy. In some events, live-in carers may also need to manage the legal affairs of the person they care for. So it’s better to be aware and ready with all the related paperwork well in advance.
Emergency Procedures
When hiring a live-in carer, you should discuss emergency procedures so that you, the care receiver, and you are on the same page as to how to respond to emergencies. For this, you must share information like emergency contacts, medication, the needs and behaviours of the person receiving the care, etc. Also, ensure adequate first-aid treatment arrangements in the event of a health or medical emergency at the venue and that the live-in carer knows how to access them during an emergency.
Moreover, make sure that all your emergency contacts are happy to provide replacement care in an emergency. Give a copy of the plan to your backup carer, the GP or district nurse, and anyone else involved in their care. You may also print a few copies out and keep them in visible places.
Summing Up
Hiring a live-in carer can be a big decision, but it can be a great way to ensure that your loved one receives the care and support they need. Live-in carers can provide your loved one with 24/7 care and support, personalised care that meets the individual needs of the person being cared for, companionship and social interaction, etc. The best part? You and your entire family will have much better peace of mind to focus on your work and other important things in life.
Just ensure that the live-in carer’s room is comfortable, clean, and has adequate heating. You can repurpose another room, such as a study or reception room, or even convert a garage. The carer may need to be within hearing range of your relative. Also, maintain a good yet professional relationship with the live-in carer and respect their privacy and time off.
Honeybee Homecare provides your loved one with a care specialist, dedicated to improving their quality of life. Contact us today !