Aretha Franklin said it right, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T find out what it means to me!” So when I googled the word “Respect”, I learned that it means “a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.”
Who came to mind for me immediately? The Caregivers at Nurse Next Door.
Caregivers have a tremendous amount of talent. They are self-led multitaskers in that they may care for a client’s emotional and physical needs; they may assist with Activities of Daily Living(ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and walking, and they remember to remind clients to take their medications.
Another job that Caregivers take on is taking clients to the grocery store, driving them to their medical appointments and managing to get in activities that align with our Happier Aging philosophy here at Nurse Next Door. Aging doesn’t mean an end to activities that you used to love!
Was your dad an avid gardener? Does your mom love window shopping? Having a caregiver doesn’t mean they only assist with Activities of Daily Living. We believe in #HappierAging which means having a caregiver who provides companionship, helps you do the activities you used to love and allows you to have a friend you share common interests with, which does wonders to alleviate loneliness. Loneliness may negatively impact leading to high blood pressure, depression, stress and stroke.
Caregivers are the front-line workers for individuals interested in aging in their own home where surroundings are familiar.
The role of the Caregiver isn’t always easy. It takes a dedicated and committed person to be a Caregiver. They are givers by nature. The work is intense, emotional and tiring but incredibly rewarding.
In fact, caregiving is a challenging career. It is important that Caregivers practice self-care when they are not on duty. Exercising, having a healthy diet and getting good sleep are critical to success as a Caregiver.
So, this is why in terms of R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Caregivers at Nurse Next Door get my vote. As a Franchise Partner, you may become all consumed in running a top-notch business which is important too. That’s the Nurse Next Door way!
But it’s also important to remember every day that your caregivers need support, encouragement and admiration every day. They are people too and we all need to know we are appreciated. So #HugACaregiver not just today, but every day.
Note: This blog was originally posted on the Nurse Next Door website https://www.nursenextdoor.com and is a part of Nurse Next Door’s “Caregiving as a Career” education program for our Franchise Partners and Caregivers. These resources are to raise awareness and provide continuing education that will support growth and compassionate care for the heart of our organization — our Caregivers.
