Patience
Patience is one of the most important traits that a caregiver can have, especially when dealing with seniors. Oftentimes, a senior might have difficulty expressing what they want or need. In this situation, caregiver should be patient and take the time to understand their senior’s needs. Also, this trait is significant because it promotes a safe environment. For instance, if an emergency were to occur, a caregiver practicing patience would be better equipped in helping the senior. By thinking clearly and remaining calm, the caregiver would be better at choosing the best and fastest way to help.
Compassion
Another essential trait of caregivers is compassion. When someone has compassion for another person, they have an idea of what the person is going through. This trait comes in handy when a senior is in pain or going through a difficult time. The caregiver practicing compassion will provide aid to the senior in a gentle manner ensuring that they feel comforted and taken care of. Furthermore, the senior feels at ease and is more likely to cooperate with the caregiver when this trait is present. With compassion, the caregiver is more in tune with the senior and is able to better assist and provide what is necessary.
Dependability
How can a senior rely on their caregiver? They cannot if the caregiver lacks dependability. This trait is crucial because a senior depends on a caregiver at all times. Without dependability, a caregiver has essentially failed in their role as a caretaker and provider. Further, this trait is significant because, in case of an emergency, the senior knows that he/she can count on their caregiver to save them. The absence of dependability also leads to other conflicts such as lack of trust and communication.
Being Observant
Being an observant caregiver might seem self-explanatory, however, this trait oftentimes does not get enough credit. Let’s put it this way, if a caregiver is not observant, he/she will overlook the fact that their senior might have dropped their medication on the floor, resulting in them not having taken it. An observant caregiver , on the other hand, will notice minute details in a given moment. They will see that the senior needs their pillow readjusted to be comfortable on the couch, or that they need their glass of water to be refilled. Overall, observant caregivers are better suited to fulfill their job duties and make an impact on someone’s life.
Positive Attitude
Another important component of a caregiver is a positive attitude. This is especially crucial in times of distress or an emergency. Keeping the environment positive in a not-so-positive situation can do wonders. For instance, in an emergency scenario, the seniors seeing their caregiver maintaining a positive attitude will in turn allow them to be relaxed and composed. Additionally, the caregiver ’s positivity will help seniors feel a bit better if they are sick. All in all one thing is for certain, no harm can be done from positivity.
