Live-in Dementia carer roles
Elderly people with dementia are a challenge for governments and society as a whole with increasing life expectancy around the world. This phenomenon causes a significant increase in some diseases, especially chronic degenerative diseases, such as dementia. Diseases that cause functional dependence, causing progressive loss of autonomy as a result of cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer’s disease, bring responsibility in the act of care to family structures. Elderly people with dementia are a great challenge and as the disease progresses, the presence of a caregiver, whether formal or informal, becomes increasingly necessary.
Understanding Live-in Dementia carer roles and Responsibilities
Live-in Dementia carers play a vital role in providing personalized care, emotional support, and assistance with daily tasks such as body hygiene, oral hygiene, bowel movements, food, medication, leisure, return appointments, physical activities, among others. This role is mostly performed by women. Caring for a sick person can be an exhausting task, as it requires relevant changes to the caregiver’s daily life, adding emotional overload.
In this sense, people with dementia require greater efforts from their family and society, as their physical limitations and emotional instabilities are progressive and can often cause significant changes in the dynamics of daily life.
Essential Skills for Successful Live-in Dementia carers
Successful Dementia carer relies on essential skills such as empathy, patience, communication, and companionship, etc. These skills contribute to a holistic and compassionate approach to live-in dementia care, enhancing the well-being of individuals facing cognitive challenges.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of individuals with dementia.
Patience: Managing challenges calmly and providing support at the individual’s pace.
Communication: Effectively communicating with individuals who may have difficulty expressing themselves.
Adaptability: Flexibility in responding to changing needs and behaviors.
Problem-Solving: Addressing issues related to care and daily activities.
Companionship: Offering emotional support and companionship to combat isolation.
Knowledge of Dementia: Understanding the unique challenges and symptoms of dementia.
Organization: Managing medications, schedules, and daily routines efficiently.
Respect for Autonomy: Encouraging independence while providing necessary support.
Safety Awareness: Creating and maintaining a safe living environment.
Live-in Dementia carers Salary Range in the UK
The average salary for a live-in carers in the UK is £500 to £800 per week. However, rates can be higher for those with specialized training or working in demanding situations. Additionally, some live-in carers receive room and board as part of their compensation package. However, it is important for carers to negotiate terms that reflect their skills and the level of care required.