What Are 4 Common Types of Caregivers?
Many people use the word “caregiver” to describe anyone who gives help to an individual. While this definition is a good start, not all caregivers are alike. Many have unique functions, usually depending upon their expertise and the needs of the person they assist.
To help you understand the vast world of caregiving, we’ve outlined four of the most common types of caregivers you’re likely to encounter. If you’re searching for a caregiver for you or a loved one, you may find a perfect fit among these descriptions.
1. Family Caregiver
Family caregivers have played an essential role in society for centuries. As the name implies, these caregivers are family members who assist their relatives. For instance, a 40-something daughter may serve as a caregiver to her elderly mother who needs help with activities like grooming, bathing or shopping.
Family caregivers may or may not be volunteers. In some cases, they earn their living by being a full-time caregiver. In other cases, they may only spend part of the time caring for a relative. Unless they’re medically trained and appointed to serve in a medical capacity, they do not deliver any kind of formal home healthcare services.
2. Private Duty Caregiver
If a family member is unable to provide care, a private duty caregiver with a medical or nursing background may come into the house.
Private duty caregivers are hired through trusted outside sources, such as a Home Care and Care Management services provider like Corewood Care. The family usually works with the private duty caregiver to determine a customized schedule. Some private duty caregivers stay throughout the night, while others concentrate their attention on care during the day.
Some families employ more than one private duty caregiver, especially if round-the-clock (or nearly round-the-clock) assistance is preferred.
3. Home Health Care Caregivers
It’s a common misunderstanding that individuals who need a caregiver today will need one in the future. Consider home health care caregivers. Generally speaking, they’re paid for entirely or partially by insurance to provide anything from physical therapy to home-based nursing.
Someone recovering from an accident or illness may see a home health care caregiver two or three times weekly. Though this type of caregiver can assist with anything from cooking to cleaning, the caregiver’s role is temporary. Ideally, the individual will get better to the point where the home health care caregiver is no longer necessary.
4. Virtual Caregivers
Does it seem as if the world has gone completely remote? It has, and that’s a great thing for many people who need a caregiver.
Virtual caregivers can provide a great deal of companionship from afar. While they might not be able to help someone put on an outfit or go to the store, they can act as a friendly face. Though virtual caregiving is in its infancy, it’s likely to become more popular with the rise in telehealth and telemedicine.
Which Type of Caregiver Is Right for Your Situation?
Now that you have more information on caregivers, you can consider which type is best suited for your or your loved one’s needs. Feel free to schedule a free assessment at Corewood Care in Maryland, North Virginia, or Washington D.C. We’ll help you explore your caregiving choices to pick the appropriate fit.
