A Day in the Life of a Professional Home Caregiver

If you’re thinking about hiring a professional to provide at-home care assistance, you might wonder what a qualified caregiver actually does and how they might help.

Visiting Angels, a leading national home care provider, employs dedicated individuals who are screened, trained, and supported from a local agency management team. These experienced professionals will get to know and understand your loved one to deliver compassionate, and attentive senior care that meets your expectations.

A Road Map of Home Care

What does a “normal day” look like?

A typical day is different for each client due to the personalized nature of support provided. Visiting Angels will develop and follow a customized home care plan established during your initial consultation. The plan acts as a “road map” and outlines the tasks and needs scheduled to be completed each day.

Whether you request daytime assistance, overnight care, personal care, or a bit of companionship, Visiting Angels will work closely with you to ensure your loved one receives the comfort and safety they deserve.

Starting the Day (or Night)

When the caregiver arrives, they will greet your senior, assess their needs, consult the plan, and check in with their local Visiting Angels’ home care office. The caregiver may also ask about any current or upcoming schedules, appointments, errands, preferences, or needs your loved one may have.

A caregiver in the morning may assist with a daily routine — helping with bathing, dressing, putting on makeup, eating breakfast, and engaging in other daytime tasks. At night, a caregiver may assist with bedtime or simply be there to offer comfort and support.

Providing Companionship and Assistance

Visiting Angels will constantly assess your loved one’s requirements for companionship and assistance — honoring their preferences and helping to promote independence, engagement, and a sense of self-worth.

For example, if your senior is low on groceries and craving a pasta dinner, your Visiting Angels’ caregiver could arrange a trip to the grocery store for the ingredients and help to prepare the meal in the evening. Or, the caregiver can coordinate activities such as a trip to the doctor’s office, helping with a load of laundry, or setting up a video chat with the grandkids.

Whether your loved one is an active older adult or a person at the end of life, your caregiver will monitor their well-being, including looking out for hazards around the home and changes in their physical or mental health status. If the caregiver has any concerns, they will alert their local management team, who will communicate with you.

Time to Head Home

Before your caregiver leaves, they will confirm your loved one is comfortable and safe. Depending on the time of day, they may ensure your senior is settled in for the night or prepared for a fresh start in the morning. Your caregiver will also review the plan to verify tasks have been completed and may check in with the local office when their shift has ended.

Although there is no “typical” day for a Visiting Angels caregiver, the goal is to meet your loved one’s individualized needs while providing you with peace of mind.

If you're interested in our compassionate services for you or a loved one, contact your nearest Visiting Angels’ agency.