Qualities of a Successful Caregiver

Working as a caregiver is not only about the ability to complete household tasks but having the qualities to make clients feel safe and comfortable in your care. You should approach situations with compassion and patience, remain present with your clients, stay adaptable when things get challenging, and remain a source of dependence in your client’s life if you wish to lead a successful caregiving career. 

Compassion

Compassion is about making others feel at ease. It’s also about understanding what an individual may be experiencing and how to approach the situation kindly and empathetically. Many changes come with age, and you need to be receptive to what your client may be going through at any time. Compassion is also a quality that can motivate you to relieve a client’s physical, mental, or emotional stress. It’s the driving force to make that makes you want to help others. 

Patience

As a caregiver, it’s vital to practice patience with your clients. People tend to slow down with age, both physically and mentally. There may be days when your client needs extra time getting ready before heading to an appointment, and the time they’re taking causes you to be late. Instead of rushing the client, you’ll need to practice patience and refrain from getting frustrated or upset. Patience can also help you and your client put things into perspective and live a more productive and enjoyable life. 

Present 

It’s not uncommon for seniors to live alone or have limited social interactions outside relatives. Clients often look forward to visits from their caregivers because it’s a time for them to interact with someone outside their immediate family. Therefore, caregivers must remain present with their clients to provide sufficient companionship. To be present, limit distractions such as phones and tablets, and stay engaged with clients while they’re interacting with you. Presence is also about being in the moment with clients and noticing details about them that you can use to provide better care. Pay attention to the foods they enjoy eating so you can help them prepare more enjoyable meals, or take notice if they’re showing signs of discomfort that may be worth bringing to the attention of their family or medical team. 

Adaptable 

Every client has a care plan that outlines the services they need, and caregivers have a general checklist of things to complete for each visit. However, even with proper planning, things will not always go according to plan. While a change in plan can feel overwhelming or frustrated, remaining adaptable when making quick decisions or changing plans to account for unforeseen circumstances provides flexibility to work with changes. Flexibility can also lower stress levels for you and your client when facing challenges. 

Dependability

Clients rely on their caregivers to live independently at home. While some clients only need help with light housekeeping or cooking, other clients need caregivers to help them bathe, use the bathroom, and move about the home. Regardless of what your client needs help with, it’s essential to remain dependable. Clients should feel confident that their caregiver will arrive on time, perform their tasks, and provide the best quality care every day they’re scheduled. 

Visiting Angels Prescott is hiring part-time and full-time caregivers to assist seniors throughout Prescott and the Verde Valley. If you’re interested in joining our team, you can send us your application online or call 928-220-4100 with any questions!