Why Hiring A Personal Caregiver Is Preferable To Institutionalization

By Lessie Kaufman


There has been a marked increase in the number of people that need some form of assistance in order to lead their day to day lives. The average age of the population in many developed countries is steadily rising. Many older people need medical or personal help on a regular basis. Institutions caring for people with disabilities or the terminally ill are also under increasing pressure. In many cases the ideal solution is a personal caregiver.

Without a doubt people that need care are better off if they receive care in familiar surroundings, in their own homes. There are certain cases, however, where the level of care required is such that it is best provided by a specialized institution. People that suffer from potentially dangerous psychological conditions, for example, often cannot stay at home because they pose a danger to themselves or even to others.

The biggest percentage of people that need help are not a danger to anyone. They will benefit greatly from being able to receive care and attention in the comfort of their own homes. Familiar surroundings are comforting and patients tend to be more content when they are able to determine their own routines. A live in private assistant is only a minor inconvenience when compared with the inconveniences necessitated by living in institutions.

Many elderly people live happily with private assistants, but they are not the only ones that can benefit from these professional services. Disabled individuals can also continue to live a normal life, albeit with some help. Those that have undergone surgery or that have suffered from serious illnesses often need temporary help while they get back to full health. It is certainly better to convalesce at home rather than in a hospital or clinic.

A live in private helper offer many benefits. Apart from affording the patient some measure of independence, they often play a vital role in keeping them alert and interested in their surroundings. They can provide individual attention, something that is seldom possible in institutions such as old age homes or hospitals. The families of the patient are also assured that their loved ones are in good hands.

Appointing a private assistant should be undertaken with great care. It is best to opt for someone that has interests similar to the patient. It is also vital to check that the candidate has experience in assisting people in similar situations. If medical attention will be necessary it is vital to ensure that the candidate has received appropriate training. Experts advise that it is best to make use of the services of placement agencies.

Living in the home of a client does not mean that the assistant has no rights. There should be a written agreement that details the duties and responsibilities of the employee. The agreement should also stipulate the privileges of the assistant, off times and communication channels with the family of the patient. If this is not done formally conflict may arise at some point.

The inability to look after oneself is almost always humiliating and frustrating. Those unfortunate individuals that are forced to enter into institutions have to deal with many real and imagined indignities. Being able to stay at home and enjoying the services of a personal assistant is infinitely preferable.




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