Caring for vulnerable adults or children in the home can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling job, offering individuals both autonomy and a sense of purpose. Care workers have an important role to play in helping those who are unable to complete everyday tasks such as cooking, bathing, and cleaning due to age-related medical conditions or any other type of physical impairment.
But with increasingly flexible models of care emerging – is it possible for care workers to do more than just provide assistance within the confines of a single residence? Could they assist their cared-for individual with outings and activities outside the house?
Let’s take a look.
How do care workers usually support patients and their families?
Care workers play a crucial role in supporting both patients and their families during times of illness or injury. Their duties include providing emotional support, administering medication, and assisting with daily activities such as bathing and dressing.
However, their support extends far beyond these responsibilities.
Care workers strive to create a warm and caring environment, fostering a sense of trust and understanding between themselves, patients, and their loved ones. They work closely with families to develop care plans that meet the unique needs of each individual patient, providing ongoing support and guidance.
Nowadays, this often means that care workers support families with activities outside the home, depending of course on the care arrangement in place. Here are just a few examples.
Taking patients for their appointments
As a care worker, this role is not just limited to providing patients with basic care and support. They also have the important responsibility of accompanying them to their appointments. Whether it’s a routine check-up, a specialist consultation or a hospital visit, their presence can make a huge difference in ensuring patients get the care they need. By taking patients to their appointments, they not only assist in their physical wellbeing, but also provide emotional support throughout their journey.
This can build strong bonds of trust and compassion between carers and your patients, making a real difference in their lives.
Helping patients engage in recreational activities
Care workers play a critical role in the lives of patients, providing essential support and care to individuals who may be unable to carry out daily tasks independently. One way in which care workers can help their patients is by introducing recreational activities outside of the home. Not only can this provide a much-needed change of scenery and social interaction, but it can also help to improve physical and mental wellbeing.
From going for a walk in the park to visiting a museum or attending a sporting event, the possibilities for recreational activities are endless. Care workers have a unique opportunity to make a real difference in their patients’ lives by helping to promote a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Supporting transportation needs
Care workers may also be tasked with helping patients get to their destinations, whether it’s a family visit or medical appointment. Depending on the agreement in place, they can provide transportation services by driving the patient’s car or using public transport, which is an invaluable service for those who are unable to take themselves out and about due to age-related medical conditions or any other type of physical impairment.
By providing transportation services, care workers enable their patients to remain independent and connected with the world around them. They also help families to coordinate visits, allowing everyone involved to maintain a sense of normality and routine during difficult times.
Find a care plan – and a carer – that works for you
Today, care workers play a vital role in providing much-needed support and guidance to patients and their families. From accompanying them to appointments and helping with recreational activities outside the home, to supporting transportation needs – they are true professionals who make an enormous difference in the lives of those they serve.
If you require support with out-of-home activities and are looking for a carer who can provide comprehensive support, don’t hesitate to speak to our team at myCare today.
