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Jillybean1027 Asked June 2021

As a first time caregiver, on my first case, how do I cope with a client who doesn't want me in their home?

I am F(19) a newly trained homemaker/caregiver for a company also new to me. Both my mother and grandmother are licensed CNAs and experienced caregivers and I had decided to get into the family trade. But now that I am on my first case, caring for a F(80) Client, who has been independent all her life and recently endured a few falling accidents, she doesn't want caregivers at all, let alone live-in ones. She has expressed her discomfort with me staying in her house and I am left feeling uncomfortable as well and unsure how to go about the rest of this case. But I have already committed myself to caring for her for 4 days straight.. Any advice from anyone on what to do?

Countrymouse Jun 2021
So, your company is under contract to provide caregivers what, 24/7 in this lady's home? And you have been sent to do the job.

Question 1, in this and every other assignment - what does it say in the Care Plan?

JoAnn29 Jun 2021
Yes, its very unprofessional to sit on your phone. Ask if there is anything she would like to do. Don't be too sweet and don't talk to her like she is a child.

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Geaton777 Jun 2021
I'm assuming this woman's PoA hired you? Can you clarify that you are sleeping over, not actually living there? I'm hoping you have a written contract in place outlining agreed wages, hours, etc? The loss of privacy is a legitimate grievance. Don't hover if you are able. I've upped the caregiver hours for my 2 aunts (ages 99 with advanced dementia and 102, with all her mind but physically diminished yet mobile). My 102-yr old aunt is very upset over the extra 12 hours a week of increased (but very needed) care. I wouldn't like it either so I'm working with the aids to figure out ways to be helpful but also discrete. It's not easy and you will have to figure out the balance as you go along. Whatever you do don't let her see you on your phone -- your professionalism is diminished every time they see you distracted by it. It's a perception thing.

AliBoBali Jun 2021
Kill with kindness. :-) Be helpful with the housework (that's always welcome) and agree with her that she doesn't need much help, even if she really does. Little white lies can help, like telling her that her having caregivers is only for a bit, even if you think she needs long term assistance. First days are hard. In a couple of weeks, I think she'll warm up to you. Becoming less independent is a hard thing for many people.
Countrymouse Jun 2021
No, Ali, no! Helping with the housework is NOT always welcome. When you are in somebody's home, you touch NOTHING without that person's express permission.
gladimhere Jun 2021
Pushing to top.

It is hard, do you have ideas on how to make your visit fun for you and the client?

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