Devoting most of your time to the care of
someone else is one of the most selfless things someone can do, but it’s not
only about the time involved. Being able to understand the person you’re caring
for, knowing their problems, challenges and desires will not only make it
easier to care for them, but will undoubtedly improve the relationship you have
with each other. Empathy is a big aspect of that, and being able to put
yourself in someone else’s shoes and be empathetic will only increase the
quality of your caregiver skills that you’re providing.
Good caregiver skills are something that
most people have to work hard at, regardless of their field of work. Here are a
few of the skills involved in effective caregiver communication:
- Patience.
Depending on the people for whom
you are providing care, you may need to be a really patient person. They
may talk more slowly, move more slowly, or even be somewhat opposed to you
being there in the first place. Just demonstrate that you are a caring and
patient person, and there is a good chance things will go well.
- Listening.
This is one of the most important communication skills anyone can
have. Sometimes it isn’t even about what they need; they may just want to
know that someone is listening to them, so be an active listener.
- Effective
talking. When it comes to talking, take
the time to explain things, and remain calm. Their hearing may be just
fine. You may, however, need to speak a little more slowly, or take the
time to explain something a little more fully.
- Body
language. Whether you are talking or
listening, it is important to pay attention to body language. This lets
the other person know that, as a caregiver, you are paying attention, are
interested in them, and are actively engaged in what is going on around you.
- Additional
considerations. For example, if
someone is hearing impaired, you will want to look directly at them when
you speak, talk loudly and clearly, and avoid distractions while
communicating with them. This includes not chewing gum or eating things while
you are speaking to them.
When physically assisting a loved one,
pulling or supporting them by their hands or arms is not only difficult, but
may lead to injury for you and them. Instead, utilize the major muscle/bone
groups. When taking someone for a walk, stand directly behind and to the left
of him or her. Place your left hand on their left shoulder, and your right hand
on their right shoulder. In this way you are walking with your loved one in a
comforting hug rather than pulling or pushing them. And when turning someone in
a bed, utilize the large bones in the hip and shoulder, and the large muscles
in the legs. Pull them toward you with your right hand over their hip or at the
knee, and your left hand at their shoulder. Finally, when pulling someone to a
standing position, it’s best to use a transfer belt.
Communication is the cornerstone of
effective care. If you do, there is a good chance you will provide good care
and retain that patient for the long term. Caregivers who do not achieve good communication
may well end up being replaced by another caregiver.
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