In the past few years, the role of a live-in carer has grown in importance. Not only has there been a general hike in terms of demand, but it has also become a lucrative career opportunity for many in the developed countries of the world.
However, it should be pointed out that a majority of the carers work in this specialized area, not because of purely economic-driven reasons. Compassion, empathy, caring, and emotional feelings compelled them to adopt this career path. Using online resources can speed up your career goals. Caregiverlist’s website, for example, provides a number of options for you to increase your training and become qualified for the position you desire.
In this article, we are going to look at some of the major roles and features of a live-in carer. We are also going to look at how a live-in carer can provide care in the home of an elderly person. However, before we begin, let us first look at why the demand for live-in carers is slowly rising in recent years.
Live-In Carers: What explains the recent rising demands?
We all know how professional commitments have increased in recent years. This has led many adults to move out of their homes and travel to different cities (from their parents) in order to find credible livelihood opportunities.
However, at the same time, children have become much more conscious of their responsibilities towards their parents. While the earnings and standard of life have increased, they are unable to really offer hands-on care 24×7 to their aging parents.
This has made most of them employ live-in carers who become a natural extension to their families. They not only look after aging elders but also act as a communication point between parents and their children.
No matter what developed country you look at, you will see a sustained increase in the demand for empathetic and qualified caregivers who can look after all aspects of the elderly and do so with a lot of love, care, and concern.
Major Roles of a Live-In Carer according to Experts
In this section, we will try to shed some light on some of the major roles and responsibilities of a live-in carer.
- A live-in carer is expected to take care of all the physical requirements and needs of the elderly. This includes bathing, shaving, helping with bathroom and toilet breaks, taking medicines, and cooking food.
- Most elderly citizens have difficulties in terms of moving from one place to another. A live-in carer should assist the elderly in moving around the house, working a wheelchair, going to the store, and so on.
- Cooking for the elderly is a pretty challenging need, especially when they have certain dietary restrictions. Shopping for groceries, preparing meals according to a doctor’s diet plans, etc. are some important areas for a live-in carer to focus on.
- A senior citizen would not be able to take care of their house. The need for cleaning, dusting, laundry, gardening, etc. requires attention and can be done by the carer. Or, they can call upon an expert and monitor the same.
- Senior citizens often collect retirement paycheques. A live-in carer needs to help around with the collection of these, and also help the individual pay bills, utilities, and so on. Sending and receiving mail is another important task.
What kind of a Personality should a Live-In Carer Possess?
The first and foremost personality trait of a live-in carer has to be one of empathy. They need to be empathetic to the needs and requirements of old and frail people, whose lives are well past them.
A live-in carer should also be compassionate and be willing to have a strong urge and desire to help people when they are in need. The individuals, which require live-in carers prefer staying in their own homes, with their own memories in place.
This helps them be independent and live life on their own terms down to the last details. A live-in carer can be of great assistance in such a case. He or she can help the senior individual with things, that allow them to live with respect till the final moments of their life.
If you are someone who feels happy by helping others out, a career as a life-carer is for you.
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