How to Be a Better Caregiver
Caregiving is one of the most taxing and stressful jobs in the world. If you provide care for an aging or ill loved one, you deserve thanks. However, you are probably wondering how you can provide even better care to help your loved one or other patient enjoy a higher quality of life. Let’s take a quick look at the best ways to be a better caregiver.
Make Eye Contact and Listen Closely
Nowadays, hardly anyone listens and even fewer people make eye contact. Listening is central to all relationships. However, you will have to put in some practice to become a better listener. Look at the loved one or other patient you provide care for and lock eyes as you listen closely. These seemingly minor acts make it clear you care about the individual in question. Listening and holding eye contact also helps your loved one feel that much more special, ultimately brightening his or her day.
Your Patient Will Appreciate Your Sense of Humor
Your patient’s life is likely quite depressing. You can do your part to lift his or her spirit by cracking the occasional joke and pointing out the humor in life when appropriate. Laugh at yourself, make it clear you are relaxed while providing care, and your patient really will be that much more comfortable and happier in your presence. When in doubt, put on a standup comedy album, a sitcom, or a funny movie while the two of you are in the room. Laugh together and your bond really will be that much stronger.
Be Patient
Patience is of the utmost importance in the context of caregiving. Demonstrate patience when providing care, be mindful of your temper and remain level-headed at all times. Don’t be so quick to criticize the person you are caring for. After all, this person probably does not have much to look forward to and you are the highlight of his or her day. Though no one is perfect, everyone can make an effort to be more patient with others, especially when providing care. If you find you are becoming impatient, close your eyes, take several consecutive deep breaths, and refocus. This brief “reset” will calm your nerves and ultimately help you provide the best possible care.
Share an Activity or Experience
A shared hobby, experience or other event provides common ground for patient-caregiver bonding. Find out what you have in common and pursue that activity or hobby in Philadelphia to strengthen your connection. Even if you both enjoy something simple such as watching the sunset or eating mint chocolate chip ice cream, sharing them together will make you a better caregiver, and create memories that your loved one looks back upon with admiration.
Contact Pristine Home Care Today
Our team is here to help you and your loved ones. Our home care services are created with each unique patient in mind, meaning we are willing to tailor service to your needs or those of your family member. Reach out to us today to find out more about our services. You can contact our Philadelphia caregivers by dialing (215) 207-6779 or by emailing Pristinehcsmarketing@gmail.com