As time goes on, they may begin to recognize, and become attached to, the people that they see on a daily basis. Most, however, will remain strangers. What is the best way to help your loved one adjust when they cannot remember the faces of the people that they have met before?

Allcare Home Health has prepared some valuable tips for families when a home health agency has to send a backup, or a new permanent caregiver. 

Take the Time to Explain

Before the new person enters the client’s home, explain the situation.  Make sure that the new caregiver is aware that the senior has a problem remembering names and faces. 

Prepare the Senior

Explain to your loved one who is coming and why. For example, “Your regular caregiver, Ann, is sick and won’t be here until she’s feeling better”, or “Ann has moved to another job and will miss you, but there is another really nice caregiver named Amy, who works with Ann.  Ann told her all about you, and Amy is looking forward to meeting you”.  Wait until the caregiver arrives at the home, then go over why the new caregiver is there and what the new caregiver is there to assist with.  Emphasize that the new caregiver is there to assist and not to control or to babysit. 

Use Notes as a Reminder

A chalkboard or dry erase board to write daily notes can be very helpful.  Leave notes to let the senior know who is coming that day, and why.  It’s also a good way to leave notes for the caregiver regarding care needs for that day. 

Make Yourself Available

When possible, be with the senior for the first week or two while he or she gets used to the new caregiver.  Work from a home office, if possible, and let the new caregiver and your senior get used to one another.  If there are questions or problems, you are there to help resolve them. 

During sundowning periods, if the senior becomes agitated or confused, it may help to take your loved one out for a walk while the caregiver does the laundry or does some light housework.  When you return, the senior will more than likely have forgotten what agitated him or her. 

Request A Caregiver with Dementia Experience

When you contact a home health agency, request a caregiver who has experience with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  Experience goes a long way with knowing how to handle situations, what to say or do or not say or do. 

Allcare experienced caregivers and CNAs receive ongoing in-service training throughout the year, much of that training is focus on caring for clients with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.

Serving the Raleigh/Durham area 24/7, call us to discuss your specific care needs.  (919) 301-0236