How to Choose a Live-in Carer

Choosing the right live-in carer for a friend, relative or yourself is an important decision and one that needs to be made carefully. This will ensure you get the care you need and minimise the impact of having a new person living in the home.

Why Choose a Live-in Carer?

Live-in care in your home from a paid carer has many benefits, allowing someone to stay in familiar surroundings while staying safe and maintaining or creating a good quality of life. It can improve safety and security and offer reassurance and comfort for the person who needs the care and their loved ones.

Starting to Make a Choice

Begin the decision-making process by creating a list of what you want from a carer, just as professionals might when browsing sites such as https://www.caremark.ie/job-opportunities/ looking at care assistant jobs and other vacancies. Identify the care needs involved and how you want these to be addressed. Think about everything needed day-to-day, from help with getting up and preparing meals to leaving the house and taking medication. Think about all the things that would help improve happiness and well-being.

Consider Individual Preferences

Along with listing care needs, it is also important to think about the interests and personality of the person requiring the care. Are they looking for quiet companionship or a live-in carer that can enhance their life with lively conversation and activities. Try to find a carer who’s personality aligns with the person requiring the care.

Do your research and review the professional history of perspective carers and try to get personal recommendations where possible. This can help to make sure you find someone who can fulfil clinical and care needs whilst also offering the right approach and personality match.

Prioritise Vetting and Safety

Safety is paramount and so, however you choose to recruit your carer, make sure that robust vetting procedures are carried out. Many people use professional providers for this reason, as the reputable ones will conduct comprehensive background checks. These should include referencing and DBS screening.