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.

There is no doubt that most people that need care are better off receiving such care at their own homes. There are instances, however, when this is simply not practical. Those suffering from debilitating conditions that cause them to pose a danger to themselves and others are better cared for in an institution that is experienced in dealing with people suffering from such conditions.

The fact remains, however, that most people that need assistance are better off in their own homes. A private assistant, even one that lives in, is a minor imposition when compared to the trauma of having to adapt to the new rules and routines that are common in large institutions. At home the patient retains some control and people in familiar surroundings are generally more content.

Many older people employ private assistants but they are not the only ones that benefit from this type of service. Many disabled people are able to remain active and independent because they have caring professionals that look after them. People that need to convalesce after medical interventions also prefer doing so at home rather than in a clinic or hospital.

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.

When considering applicants for a live in position it is vital to ask for references and to actually follow up on them. Different clients have different needs and the chosen assistant should have experience in helping in similar conditions. It will also help if the assistant is compatible with the patient. Many cities have agencies that can provide valuable assistance in finding the ideal candidate.

A live in assistant has a very special position of trust. There has to be a written contract, however. The terms and conditions under which the assistant will perform his duties must be spelled out in detail. The benefits and remuneration of the assistant should likewise be agreed upon in writing. It may be wise to insist upon an initial try out period first.

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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