A GUIDE FOR SUPPORT WORKERS AND CARERS
Caring for the disabled and elderly is understandably not an easy thing to do. There could be challenging moments, when supporting and assisting vulnerable people. In order to make sure that you deal with stress both mentally and physically, we have put together a guide, on ways to care for the disabled and elderly.
In this article, we will discuss some ethical standard precautions and tips on the approved ways to care for the disabled and the elderly.
Tip 1: Don’t take things personally.
The person who receives care from you may sometimes be going through occasional mood swings and this can sometimes make them feel depressed. This is in no way a reflection of you or your pattern of care. That's because of the mental, physical and emotional challenges that they do go through at this stage. They do appreciate the support and care that you offer. However, you will have to face the unexpected at certain times. In all instances, you need to remain mindfully and act professionally. Hence, you need to make sure that you are not taking their reactions to you personally.
Tip 2: Be positive and patient.
While offering care for the disabled and elderly, there is a need to remain positive and patient at all times. You should never expect them to do things the standard way. They may have to overcome many challenges before they can do a specific task. This is where you come in equipped with patience, positivity and encouragement. On the other hand, you must learn how to provide them with the time that is needed to learn what you expect them to do as well.
You must also remain positive when you are offering care for the individuals who are in need of help by being open minded and brave. In addition to that, you should also remain forgiving and kind. If you can also be grateful and optimistic, you can discover the joy inside all the difficult work that you are doing on a daily basis. Then you can be a true inspiration for others as well.
Tip 3: Empathy over sympathy.
By nature, you will feel sorry for the disabled or elderly individual that you are taking care of. However, you should remain mindful when you are expressing it. That's because most of the people you care for would not want other people to feel sorry about them. It can make them feel powerless as well. Hence, you need to showcase your love and concern to the person who receives care from you at all times. At no instance should you make a show that you feel sorry or pity for your clients. It should always be empathy rather than sympathy.
Tip 4: Go for regular exercises.
Workouts are among the best methods available that helps to develop the body’s strength and system which in turn aids in relieving stress. When you are taking care of disabled or senior citizens, you will need to have lots of energy and stamina which is what regular workout does to the body. These regular exercises will be able to provide you with all the support and assistance that you need to overcome endorphins. Exercising also helps to develop the mind body and soul, hence its importance as a caregiver.
Tip 5: Stick to the correct lifting procedures
While you take care of a disabled individual or an elderly person, it is of utmost importance that you are adhering to the correct lifting procedures at all times. Using proper lifting techniques can help prevent injury.
Caregivers are at greatest risk for injury when they are:
- Pulling a person who is reclining in bed into a sitting position.
- Transferring a person from a bed to a wheelchair.
- Leaning over a person for long periods of time.
Some general guidelines to follow when you need to lift or move a person include:
- Ensure your head and neck is in proper alignment with your spine.
- Always try not to bend at your waist and maintain the natural curve of your spine.
- When carrying someone, remember to avoid twisting your body.
- Always keep the person who is being moved close to your body.
- Your feet shoulder-width should be kept apart to maintain your balance.
- Instead of putting pressure on your entire body, the muscles in your legs should be used to lift and/or pull.
As a support worker or carer, you help the person you care for, with many activities. Understanding what you need to do, and what help you can get, can make your life easier.
At My Support Champion, we help you find people looking for support and care in your local area, whether you are looking to provide Personal Care or Live-in Care. Contact us at info@mysupportchampion.com.au. It is free to join, so why don’t you give it a go.