Choosing a caregiver is a big decision.

Whether you’re choosing one for the first time or choosing to replace an existing caregiver, you have much to consider.

Deciding which caregiver is best can be a daunting decision. You’re essentially putting your trust in the hands of a stranger.

Fortunately, some signs will indicate if a caregiver is right for you or your loved one.

Why Your Relationship with a New Caregiver Is Important

A client’s relationship with their caregiver is one of the most important they’ll have in their life.

A caregiver will have access to their client’s home and possessions. In some cases, they also become the person their client interacts with most.

Time spent with a caregiver is important for the client’s health and well-being. It helps them stay social despite their limitations. A caregiver can make them feel safe and secure.

The New Caregiver Relationship: Watch Out for These 5 Red Flags

If you are looking for a caregiver, steer clear of those who display these traits.

1. No Boundaries

A caregiver without boundaries can negatively impact both themselves and their client.

Without boundaries, a good caregiver can burn out and ruin their health. The result: They can’t provide the high level of care their clients expect.

If a caregiver doesn’t respect the boundaries of their client, they can cause stress. They may even start treating their client with blatant disrespect, which is never okay.

2. Questionable Behavior

A lack of morals can harm a client and their family. If a caregiver is ever caught lying, mistreating their client, or stealing, immediate termination is necessary. If a caregiver has a negative reputation for questionable behavior, look elsewhere for care.

3. Assuming Their Client Can’t Make Decisions

A client is someone that needs assistance. They aren’t children that can’t think for themselves. Therefore, if a caregiver tries to “mother” their client or speak for them, it’s a red flag.

A quality caregiver respects their client. They know they’re an adult with their own thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Remembering that and exercising patience will give the client peace of mind. The client will feel honored and respected.

4. Disorganized

A caregiver has a lot to juggle. They may have multiple clients. As part of caring for their client, they might have to take care of:

Getting the client to and from appointments
Their client’s medications
Their client’s home

Clients should feel well cared for and at ease. A disorganized caregiver may cause or contribute to chaos within their client’s home.

5. Disinterested in Their Client and/or Job

When someone doesn’t care about their job, they’re not going to put much into it. Instead, they’ll do the bare minimum. That can spell disaster for someone who requires care. Choose a caregiver who is passionate about their work and clients.

5 Green Flags: Look for These Qualities in a Caregiver

In addition to watching out for red flags, there are some good qualities to look for in caregivers. Here are just a few. If your new caregiver checks these boxes, you can feel confident knowing you’re in good hands.

1. Patience

Patience is vital for caregivers.

Clients often require patience. They need to be patient with themselves, and they need patience from others. A good caregiver will have the patience to avoid being short-tempered while helping their client feel safe and calm.

2. Compassion

Compassion is one of the top qualities caregivers need to excel in their job. Without compassion, a caregiver won’t have patience, and likely won’t take the needs of their clients seriously. Compassion creates a safe environment where people can express their emotions freely.

3. Detail-Oriented

An organized, detail-oriented person is well-equipped to care for others. You can feel confident when they care for you or your loved one’s medications and appointments. Their attention to detail will put your mind at ease and reduce stress within the home.

4. Attentiveness

Like compassion, attentiveness is vital to the health and well-being of a caregiver’s client. Caregivers who are attentive to their client’s needs set themselves and their clients up for success.

5. Trustworthy

A person who is honest and has strong morals and ethics is trustworthy. Knowing you can trust someone is vital to your peace of mind and health.

Homewatch CareGivers Only Hires Caregivers Who Are an Asset to Our Clients

Our job is very important, and we commit wholeheartedly to providing clients with the best care possible. To do that, we need to hire the best—and we take hiring decisions very seriously.

The caregivers we hire are caring and compassionate. They willingly comply with Homewatch CareGivers’ policies. Our caregivers are constantly learning, too. They want to find ways to improve to serve our clients’ needs as best as possible.

We don’t hold on to caregivers who do not hold our clients, their needs, and their families in high regard. Because of this, our clients and their families feel confident choosing us for their caregiving needs. And you can, too.

Want to learn more about becoming a caregiver or how to find the right caregiver? Schedule an interview with Homewatch CareGivers today.