A Day in the Life of a Live-In Carer



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What is the Role of a Live-In Carer?
Live-in carers are vital in providing personalised care and companionship to the elderly and adults with medical conditions. Their job is to help clients remain independent and live comfortably in their own homes rather than having to move to a care facility.
Live-in caregivers assist with daily activities, provide safety and supervision, and give clients the chance to have more social interaction. Let’s take a look at one of their typical days. This day is based on the assessed needs of the cared for individual and therefore may differ between individuals.
Morning Routine: Waking Up, Breakfast, Medications
A live-in caregiver’s day starts early. They begin by waking up the client gently, helping them out of bed and assisting with using the bathroom. The caregiver helps the client wash up, brush their teeth, comb their hair, and get dressed for the day. They make the bed and tidy up the bedroom.
The caregiver then heads to the kitchen to prepare a nutritious breakfast tailored to the client’s dietary needs. They serve breakfast to the client and sit down to enjoy a meal together. An important task is ensuring the client takes any scheduled morning medications or supplements. The caregiver provides medication reminders and observes to ensure proper dosage and administration.
Individual Activities
The caregiver structures their day around providing activities tailored specifically to the client’s interests, abilities and needs. For example, the caregiver may do light exercise or stretching with the client to maintain mobility. They may also engage in cognitive stimulation by doing crossword puzzles, listening to audiobooks, looking at photo albums together or perhaps reminiscing about the past.
Caregivers also provide companionship through activities like going on outings, playing card or board games, arts and crafts projects, gardening, watching films and more.
Nutrition: Preparing Healthy Meals and Snacks
Proper nutrition is a key role for live-in caregivers to oversee. They plan well-balanced meals and snacks that appeal to the client’s taste whilst meeting doctor-recommended dietary guidelines.
For example, the caregiver may prepare a salad with grilled chicken and avocado for lunch, with fresh fruit and yoghurt for an afternoon snack. The caregiver assists with feeding as needed, such as cutting food into bite-size pieces. They ensure the client stays hydrated by providing water, juice, tea and other fluids regularly throughout the day and the caregiver is constantly vigilant about food safety and storage.
This can sometimes be challenging if the client is fussy or used to a particular routine that may not be in line with recommended medical guidance. The caregiver is trained to be able to support in these circumstances so that the client does not feel a loss of control over these things but is rather supported and reminded about the importance of engaging in healthy nutrition for wellbeing.
Evening Routine: Dinner, Getting Ready for Bed
Later in the day, the caregiver prepares a nutritious dinner, assists with eating, and clears up afterwards. As bedtime approaches, they provide personal care such as bathing, helping the client put on pyjamas, and assisting with using the bathroom again.
The caregiver ensures the house is secured, sets out clothes for the next day, and helps the client take any scheduled evening medications. They assist the client into bed, make them comfortable, and sit with them, chatting or reading books before saying goodnight.
Find the Expert Advice You Need by Calling The Live In Care Company
We’ve seen some of the many ways that live in caregivers create a safe and comfortable environment. However, each situation is unique, and professional guidance can be invaluable. Speak to us today to get expert advice about receiving care tailored to your specific needs and start making a positive change in the lives of your loved ones.