If a caregiver is sent by an agency, the definition of "light housekeeping" is in the contract. A private caregiver should come to an agreement of the definition BEFORE signing a contract with a client, because it can literally mean anything and is up to subjective interpretation.
A Companion to me is a person who comes and sits with you. Maybe entertains, takes u shopping, lunch, maybe doctor visits they do not clean or do any physical care.
There are two types of aides: CNA (Certified Nurses Aide) does the physical caring. Bathing, toileting, dressing, making meals, light housekeeping (if no one else in the household capable), laundry (again if no one else in the household capable).
HHA (Home Health Aide) does not do hands on. She/he basically just cleans, makes meals, laundry...
You can look it up for your State what are the responsibilities for each. Then determine what your needs are. Both are responsible for the person they are hired to care for. They have no responsibility for someone else in the house hold unless you pay for that.
It could be total responsibility to manage the home down to hardly anything. It’s what you contract for. If you are hiring from an agency they will have their list of what you can expect. If you hire privately you might be able to customize the duties to what is needed. I encourage you to check with agencies so you realize what the going rates and responsibilities are. Decide what’s most important. Take into consideration the patients condition and preferences and how much time it takes to complete tasks. Don’t assume anything. Make a detailed list and go over it carefully with the person you hire. You may find your perfect caregiver on the first pass. You may not. Keep in mind what’s most important and adjust your expectations as necessary.
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There are two types of aides:
CNA (Certified Nurses Aide) does the physical caring. Bathing, toileting, dressing, making meals, light housekeeping (if no one else in the household capable), laundry (again if no one else in the household capable).
HHA (Home Health Aide) does not do hands on. She/he basically just cleans, makes meals, laundry...
You can look it up for your State what are the responsibilities for each. Then determine what your needs are. Both are responsible for the person they are hired to care for. They have no responsibility for someone else in the house hold unless you pay for that.
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