Family members trust and know each other best. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always mean they’re available or capable of taking care of an elderly loved one. The next best option is hiring a caregiver, but there may be some apprehension from your senior and perhaps even within the family about this choice. To help everyone feel at ease with home health care, Brightstar of West St. Louis County and St. Charles offers three methods to make the process easier.

Have a Dialogue

When you first discuss hiring a caregiver with your family, make sure you’re not the only one talking. Listen to the concerns of your loved one. As much as you want them to recognize the benefits of having companion care, they want you to acknowledge their fears of losing their independence and privacy. Give them the chance to be in control of their lives. Whether that means having them be part of the vetting process or setting ground rules, you’re allowing their voice to be heard, which adds to their comfort throughout this transition.

Get to Know the Caregiver Gradually

An important factor of in-home care is the relationship between the caregiver and your family member. Without trust, there is no relationship to build. During the first interactions, be the support and voice of encouragement for your loved one. Advise the caregiver about your family member’s needs and personality to help them build the relationship more easily. Once the initial nervousness has settled, gradually allow small pockets of alone time between the two so your loved one doesn’t feel completely abandoned.

Let Them Know You’re Still There

Having a dependable caregiver keeps you worry-free about your loved one’s safety and well-being. However, make it clear to your loved one that you’re not leaving them behind. Being separated from family isn’t easy. Regularly remind them you’re happy they’re getting proper care. This will ease their anxiety about being left with a third party.

Your loved one deserves to be given the best care St. Charles and St. Louis have to offer. To learn more about the benefits of home health care and how to make the transition easy for your family member, call Brightstar of West St. Louis County and St. Charles at (314) 819-6000. Visit their website for details on their caregiving services.