Sheila Korn of Love 2 Live Care Services recently chatted with us about the qualities of a top-notch, in-home caregiver. She came to create Love 2 Live Inc. in 2003 after experiencing challenges during her beloved mother's illness.
She opened the company to offer personalized, non-medical home care to seniors who want to remain in their own homes and continue to live their lives with independence and dignity.
We recently checked in with Sheila to get her insight on what it means to be a top-notch caregiver. Here's what she had to say:
What are the essential qualities of a top-notch in-home caregiver?
You must have a giving heart and be very patient. You can learn the skills to be a quality caregiver but you need common sense and the willingness to think ahead for what is needed. You need a joyful attitude. You must be dependable and compassionate.
On the other hand, what are some things that make someone not right for that line of work?
You can't be lazy and self-centered.
What are the most common mistakes caregivers make?
The most common mistake is getting too close to the client and sharing too much personal information. There has to be a fine line between sharing too much or too little. The caregiver and client get very close, and sometimes it is hard to not let certain things out that the client really shouldn't hear because it may be upsetting to them.
How do you approach the recruiting process?
We are very serious about recruiting. Every applicant must fill out an application that is reviewed. If we feel they have the qualifications needed, we call them in for a personal interview. After the personal interview, if they are the type of person we want to hire, we then check their references, do a background check, check their DMV record and invite them to an orientation.
How can a caregiver most effectively improve their abilities and qualifications?
Each caregiver comes to us with certain abilities, but we are constantly improving these abilities through training sessions either on line or at our training center. These trainings cover everything from "Becoming a Caregiver," "Safety and Emergency First Aid," "Body Systems and the Aging Process," and so much more. There is a course where caregivers learn the stages and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease as well as get exposure from the families' perspective. This course gives caregivers the ability of achieve an Alzheimer & Memory Care Certification.
What should caregivers never do?
Caregivers should never leave their client alone unless it has been specifically stated that is alright. They should never share their worries or talk about compensation.
Is there anything else you'd like our readers to know?
We care deeply for our clients and strive to provide them with the respect they deserve. It is the mission of Love 2 Live Care Services to improve the lives of our seniors and younger adults by helping them to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible.
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Access our free online caregiver videos for more information.
