Taking care of the elderly or dependent people at home is an option that is increasingly in demand, in an aging country like Spain, as an alternative to residences that separate them from their environment and home. However, older people may show rejection of the changes if up to now it has been a relative who has been in charge of their care. Caregivers have a decisive influence on the physical and emotional well-being of these people, which is why it is important to forge a good relationship based on mutual respect, although there is not always a feeling from the beginning.
Starting the relationship off on the right foot will prevent future problems and keep the family and caregiver happy. Here are some tips that can help caregivers gain the trust of the people they care for, especially if they don't belong to their family circle.
Clear communication in both directions must be a constant from the first moment to generate a relationship of trust. The caregiver must know what is expected of him to carry out her work with satisfaction. These lines of communication are also key to controlling expectations and avoiding misunderstandings. Prior to your incorporation as a caregiver, family members must make it clear what specific care the elderly person needs and what support tasks at home they should help them with. Any modification of this agreement must be kept open to questions or suggestions by both parties.
In the day to day, there will be moments to have light conversations with the person you are caring for. Listening to her and empathizing with her will work as an infallible resource when it comes to gaining her trust. Some topics that you can talk about are your origins, your experiences in other types of jobs or your favorite entertainment options in terms of music, cinema or literature.
The initial mistrust can lead to questions about your personal life in your conversations with the person you care for. While this is part of bonding, it can be awkward, which is why you should only respond to what you want. Similarly, if the person you're caring for tells you about their personal life, you shouldn't share it outside of their family.
Older or dependent people tend, with age, to adopt hobbies or customs that may seem extravagant to us and to show a certain irascible character. Given this, he tries to act with the utmost patience, tact and attention to try to understand the reasons for his behavior. To exchange ideas, it is essential that you take their opinions into consideration, but, if necessary, set limits with authority and determination, since respect and cordiality must flow in both directions.
