Your Client
Although you will have read your Live-in Care Agency’s guidelines and recommendations before you start your assignment, here are a few other comments and tips that may be helpful.
We are all individuals and your Client’s uniqueness should be recognised and maintained. Your approach should always be courteous, supportive, encouraging and consultative. Remember, your Client (assumed to be a lady, in this case) has:
A past, which will have given her memories and experiences, influenced her attitudes and led her to where she is today. She may be happy to talk about these or may wish to preserve her privacy.
A present, where she is, at least partly, dependent on others and yet wants to maintain her lifestyle and dignity, and to be consulted about matters that are important to her. On the one hand, she may be quite independent and wish to do as much as possible for herself and to do things which help you. On the other, she may appreciate your company and be reassured by the support you give.
A future which, if all she can foresee is a progressive loss of her abilities, could be quite depressing. A positive attitude and a willingness to take things one day at a time may help her to overcome any underlying frustration and anger with her condition.
Client’s Lifestyle
- Your “setup” telephone call with the Client or her representative is the best time to discuss the details of your assignment and to have them confirm what you have been told by the Agency. Obviously, you will want to know as much as possible about the Client’s needs and routine and to satisfy yourself that the level of care you are offering is appropriate.
- Insist that the departing Carer hands over properly by giving you information about the Client (especially medication), the running of the house (including how to use the washing machine), the food which is in stock and how you get to the shops. Do not be fobbed off by comments such as, “It’s all in the book” or, “You’ll soon pick it up”.
- Have a quick look at the Agency’s Log Book in the presence of the departing Carer to see whether there are gems of information which need explaining.
- Find out what your Client likes to eat. You may have to prepare traditional British dishes or, perhaps, the Client will enjoy trying some of the dishes you cook at home. Should you not be familiar with traditional dishes, you might like to purchase a recipe book. For instance, an order form for “The Carer’s Cookbook” can be downloaded from the internet.
- Although it is not your responsibility to ensure the Client takes her medication, a verbal reminder may be necessary. Be aware that, unless all the medication is in one place, there is the possibility of the Client taking a double dose using a supply that you do not know about. If the Client refuses to take the medication prescribed, you should contact the Client’s Representative.
- You must be prepared for the Client that has mood swings. Once you recognise this and are satisfied that it is not the result of uncontrolled medication, you can work out a strategy to cope with the situation. Remember, if the Client seems unreasonably critical or bad tempered, it is probably not your fault so try not to take it personally.