A personal care assistant helps your loved one maintain their daily routine. Whether they need help housekeeping, cooking, or taking medication, a caregiver will be there to lend a hand and ear. Find someone who has the following qualities, and you'll rest easy knowing your loved one is in good hands.

What to Look For in a Personal Care Assistant

1. Experience

Look for a caregiver who has the experience that matches your loved one's needs. For example, if a patient has early-stage Alzheimer's, it will be important for their caregiver to provide cues and reminders to help with their memory. With a late-stage patient, it is important to monitor their eating as they are less active and may have a reduced appetite.

Knowing your caregiver has worked with someone in a similar situation will bring you peace of mind and comfort. They'll follow best practices to keep your loved one safe and comfortable.

2. Positive Personality

Depression can be triggered by illnesses prevalent in older populations such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, and arthritis. Their mental and physical health might make daily tasks like eating and bathing uncomfortable. But, having a positive influence around might soothe their discomforts. Plus, research shows that people who socialize are happier; daily interactions with a sunny caregiver could transform your loved one's general attitude.

3. Observant & Reliable

The health of older adults can change abruptly. You'll want a caregiver who will be tuned in to subtle changes in your loved one's behaviors. Whether they're eating less, irritable, or forgetful, these are all symptoms they'll report back to you so you can discuss them with the doctor and stay ahead of health issues.

At the same time, you need someone you can depend on to show up consistently and on time. Check with your caregiver to ensure they have time in their schedule and a dependable mode of transportation.

Find an exceptional caregiver for your loved one with the help of MedStar Home Health Services in Clayton, MO. For over 15 years, this in-home care agency has specialized in providing daily care for seniors and physically disabled individuals. For those who prefer choosing their caregiver from friends and family, they'll provide training to ensure they're ready for the job. Call (314) 782-7311 to learn more about their compassionate and comprehensive care. Read more about their personal care services online.