4 Ways to Make Your Caregiving Career Fun for Your Client and You

4 Ways to Make Your Caregiving Career Fun for Your Client and You

Caregiving is an extremely rewarding career although it requires a lot of responsibility. However, there are ways to make your day-to-day roles and responsibilities enjoyable for you and your client! During my experience as a Certified Home Health Aide, I’ve come to the realization that personal touch is everything. If you’re creative and spontaneous like me, you’ll enjoy these different ways to spice up your caregiving routine.

1. Get Them Involved. A large amount of seniors either live alone, or are away from family and friends. You may be one of the only people they see on a day-to-day basis. If this is the case, and their health permits, try to plan some activities that give them a chance to hangout and be around other seniors. Both of you can sit down and research some senior group activities in the area and pick one based on their personal preference.

2. Puzzles. While puzzles may seem outdated, they’re actually very fun and the end result is extremely rewarding. It’s a perfect activity for the wintertime months when it’s too cold to enjoy being outside. My advice is to get a puzzle with large pieces in case your client has impaired vision. Puzzles are challenging and give the two of you something to work on together. Your client will be proud of themselves when the puzzle is complete and so will you!

3. Have Stimulating Conversations. You may get into a routine with your clients where you are just going through the motions. Stop and take the time to have a conversation with your client. Seniors have so many amazing stories to share from their lifetime. My personal favorites are war stories from retired veterans. Engaging in conversations not only stimulates your senior’s memory, but it is a great way to bond and become closer with your client and form a bond of trust.

4. Play Your Client’s Favorite Music. Music is great for the soul. Learn your client’s favorite band, singer, or genre of music and put it on while you’re working. Incorporating music into my routine has exposed me to so many different kinds of music that I’ve never heard of. Music is great for your client as it releases serotonin in the brain and can help with feelings of anxiety and depression. Plus, it can trigger an impromptu sing-along!

5. Food. Along with music, food can also boost your client’s mood. While keeping in mind dietary restrictions, plan out your client’s favorite meal and cook it together! If the meal is unhealthy, there are substitutes you can try to keep the food heart-healthy and tasty. Cooking the meal together is a great way to get closer to your client and sharing it together is a great way to facilitate meaningful conversation.

Becoming a Certified Home Health Aide through Pawson Career Institute was one of the best choices I’ve made in my professional career. As a people person, I enjoy meeting new clients and being able to help them live healthier and more productive lives. Adding my own personal touch to my caregiving routine has allowed me to form long-lasting bonds with my clients which to me is the most rewarding aspect of all.

If you want to learn more about becoming a Certified Home Health Aide like me! Please call PCI at 609-416-2442. We offer flexible online training programs that fit your busy schedule and allow you to pursue your caregiving career on your own time. We’d be happy to answer any questions about this rewarding career path. Alternatively, you can visit our FAQ section to learn more!