As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a great time to reflect on how we can show more appreciation for the people around us. Because November is also National Family Caregivers Month, our team here at Homewatch CareGivers® has gathered a few tips for how you can show appreciation to the caregivers in your life, whether you’re an in-home care franchise owner or an appreciative family member.
With our innovative in-home care franchise model, it’s our goal to ensure that every senior can “age in place” with the help of a qualified caregiver, rather than relocating to a retirement community or assisted living facility. By creating a culture where caregivers can continue to thrive, we hope to change the national conversation around in-home care and improve outcomes for families across the country.
Showing Appreciation for Caregivers
It’s no secret that caregiving isn’t always an easy position, whether it’s performed on behalf of family members or clients. Requiring equal parts emotional intelligence, patience, and practical know-how, caregiving requires much from the people who serve in this role.
Unfortunately, many caregivers across the health care spectrum are left feeling unappreciated by their employers. Whenever employees feel unappreciated, you can expect to see higher levels of turnover and lower levels of engagement across the industry, and that has remained true here: According to Home Health Care News, the entire category for home care aides saw a turnover rate of 25% in 2019.
Of course, those who enter into caregiving can also be richly rewarded by the meaningful, purpose-driven work that they provide for others. Still, it’s important for everyone to recognize the valuable skills that caregivers bring to the table – and encourage them onwards by creating a more positive environment.
Here are just a few ways that you can show appreciation for caregivers:
- Take the time to say something nice. Offering a few words of encouragement now and then can make a huge difference for exhausted caregivers. It also helps to remind your caregivers about the reasons why they took on this role, by sharing uplifting stories and thoughtful comments made by clients or family members.
- Think of tangible ways to show appreciation. Whether you want to thank your family member for putting in hours of caregiving assistance or offer a small incentive to an employee, try to think of tangible and practical ways to show your appreciation. Gift cards, handwritten cards, movie tickets, and public recognition for hard work are nearly always welcome.
- Listen to caregivers. Caregivers often develop meaningful relationships with their charges – and because of these close connections, they often have a wealth of insight into how the caregiving process can be improved for seniors. Take the time to ask caregivers what they need from you, whether that means resources or support.
Caring Is Our Top Priority
At Homewatch CareGivers®, we combine a welcoming culture with a proven business model for the in-home care space. Because we provide ongoing support, resources, and training for all of our franchise owners, we make it easier for them to dedicate time to their caregivers and programs. If you want to give back to your community and create more positivity in the world, contact us to see if our in-home care franchise would be a good fit.
Let’s make home care better! Contact us todayfor more information about our process.
