Hard Science and Soft Skills: Homecare Workers Need Both

By Andrew De Four, President, Customized Homecare

The assessment was complete, and the meeting booked. But when Maggie, our Director of Care, rang the doorbell, the elderly woman had just one thing to say: “Go away!”. Maggie had experienced this before, so in an inquisitive tone she drew the woman’s attention to something else: “Those are beautiful paintings on your wall. Can you tell me about them?”. Moments later the two were sitting on the sofa, with Maggie listening to stories about the cherished art.

 It is of course essential that homecare workers be well-trained and know the latest developments in dementia care. But they also need the soft skills you won’t find on any diploma: Empathy, patience, and compassion, and a good understanding of how to apply them when caring for someone living with dementia.  

 Without the right approach and temperament, caregivers can provoke anxiety, leading to an unsuccessful match and sending a family in need back to square one. Being a caregiver is a challenging vocation requiring an elevated level of adaptability, so it’s essential to look for a homecare provider that puts a premium on attitude and experience.

 A good caregiver will keep eye contact and smile, and recognize when a stare becomes a glare, signalling a change of mood. Their body language will be open and relaxed. And when vision or hearing is impaired, they’ll know when to stay within a loved one’s field of vision and when to come in close to avoid provoking a fear response. They’ll speak calmly and gently and measure their tone to achieve a desired result. They’ll give simple instructions, coupled with gesturing, then leave time for the person to process the information and respond. They’ll repeat instructions as often as needed. And as I mentioned at the outset, they’ll know the fine art of redirecting, to avoid unnecessary conflict. And they’ll answer each repeated question as if it was the first time asked.

 Good caregivers know the diverse ways the disease can manifest and the importance of routines. They know about concepts like “sundowning” and how to manage the irritability and confusion that can worsen in the evening, provoking wandering, pacing and a poor sleep pattern. They know that avoiding daytime napping and caffeine and having a predictable sleep schedule can make a significant difference. And they know when to participate in or let a misperception of reality play out without questioning or criticism.

 Those living with dementia often refuse things they need. “No” to taking medication, taking a shower, or letting a caregiver into their home. But the caregiver needs to drop the “no” from their own vocabulary, to avoid putting the loved one, who is an adult, on the defensive. Instead, they must strive for connection.

 At the end of the day, it all comes down to dignity. Giving the loved one and their family the ability to relax a little, because they feel well cared for. At Customized Homecare “your family is ours”, and when someone calls, we pick up the phone and are ready to listen and tailor a care program to your needs. It’s a relationship, and we work tirelessly to ensure it lasts.

 Customized Homecare is one of Montreal’s leading homecare service providers, serving families across the island and beyond. Reach their qualified and experienced team by calling (514) 418-0520 or at customizedhomecare.ca