Hiring caregivers is always tricky. Your mom needs help with daily activities, but she's also very shy and isn't comfortable around strangers. When you schedule senior care services, what do you do if she's not comfortable with her new caregiver?
Try to Be There for the First Week or Two
While your mom adjusts, consider working from an office or den within her house. Don't intervene or try to be part of the adjustment, but it may help your mom feel comfortable if you're in the same building. If she's panicking or struggling, you can help calm her down before returning to work.
As she adjusts and gets to know her caregiver, start leaving the house to run quick errands. Eventually, she'll be okay being left alone with her new caregiver and won't need you there.
Start Small and Increase From There
Instead of throwing your mom into a full day of senior care services, start small and increase as she acclimates to the change. Have the caregiver come one day a week for a few hours. As your mom gets used to it, add a second day and longer hours. Work up to a schedule that covers everything your mom needs help completing.
Be Prepared to Switch if Needed
You could always force your mom to deal with it, but it can be detrimental to her mental health. She may know she will never get along with this person and have a hard time explaining exactly why. Personality conflicts happen at any age. Some people just don't click.
If that happens, ask for a different caregiver. You might have to try a few out, but with time and patience, you'll eventually find the right caregiver.
Consider Addressing Social Anxiety With Her Doctor
Your mom might benefit from discussing social anxiety with her doctor. Shyness and social anxiety are different, but if having a caregiver is causing her stress, it's worth asking her doctor for advice. If it is social anxiety, some techniques can be used to help her.
Work With a Senior Care Agency That Understands the Nervousness
Address this issue with the senior care provider when you make arrangements. Let them know that she's shy and may not take to a stranger in her home. There's the chance that she'll be allowed to talk to different caregivers and get to ask questions before someone arrives at her house. This will make her first days of senior care services go smoothly.
If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring senior care in Los Gatos, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 317-4969.
