If you have to choose a in-home care provider bear in mind that it should be the best one according to your loved one’s needs. Once you have found the ideal company you have to make sure they know important facts that will ensure they are taking good care of your loved one. Although caregivers are well trained before being hired they should also learn about the specific details of the new clients. So it becomes imperative to have a meeting, or to give them notes about the needs or details of the patient, before the job actually starts. That is why we list some of the things family members should tell the in-home care provider.
Home Layout
- Security: how to lock doors, windows or set an alarm system
- Where to find operating manual for electrical devices: dishwasher, washing machine, etc.
- Where would they find the household supplies.
- Where to find the things needed when cooking.
- Where to find phone lines in the home.
- Where to find clean bedding, towels, etc.
In Case of an Emergency
- Phone number and address of the client’s GP
- Which hospital to go in case of an emergency, phone and address.
- Family members, friends or neighbors’ contact information: phone numbers, address.
Information about the Client
- The diet they have to follow or food allergies.
- Their preference concerning food, activities or even clothing.
- Where to find the patient’s clothing, shoes, etc.
- If needed, information about devices that will help the client’s mobility, such as wheelchairs.
- Information about any pre-existing medical condition.
- Let the caregiver know what the client is not allowed to do unassisted; go out own their own, cooking or bathing.
- Their need for eyeglasses, or contact lenses and information or instructions about them.
- Things they should do; exercises, or any daily routine they need to follow.
- Any other information the family think is important to let the caregiver know beforehand.