6 Signs You'd Be Good At Live In Care

A live-in carer is an alternative to full-time care home meaning that someone doesn’t have to give up their home when they need a little more help on a day to day basis. But a live-in carer role may not suit everyone. So what signs could mean you are ideal for this vocation? And do you have the skills and traits to do the job well, and enjoy it too?

With your own outgoing personality, you have a heightened sense of what others around you are thinking, what they need and like, as well as what they dislike and so on. This in-tune vibe makes you a very caring person, someone who people feel they can talk to as well as share any problems they are having. A live-in carer needs to wear many hats on occasions.

Looking after someone, whether it is occasional help with bathing or attending to their every need, is not so much a ‘job’ but a calling. Whilst it is a worthwhile and fulfilling career, it can also be tough and daunting at times. If you know being a live-in carer is a way of life and not just another job, you have a key aptitude for this role.

3 You live life to the full!

We often think of old age as a time when people ‘should’ be slowing down or taking things easy. But in all honesty, for many people past retirement age, it is the time of their life when they do a lot more living. The role of live-in carer is not about holding someone back or giving them permission to do things, but to help them make the most of every day. Do you think you could provide this for someone?

We are all different in looks, abilities, opinions and outlook. Respecting people means respecting their opinions. Respect is a big word and something we all say that we can do but what about when it comes to looking after someone. Can you respect their wishes but balance that against theirs (and your own) well-being?

5 You have qualifications and the experience

There are many care work qualifications that you can study to equip you with the knowledge base needed for the live-in carer role. From safeguarding vulnerable adults to understanding how nutrition needs change as we grow older, these are important for anyone considering working with older people in a care setting. Experience is something you will build over time but there are certainly aspects of live-in care work that differ from working a shift at a care home.

6 You are trusted and trustworthy

It’s a big step for someone to welcome a carer to live in their home and to provide them with the care and support they need. It involves a huge amount of trust. Do you have what it takes? Find out more at the Live In Care Hub.

The author has written and published articles on a wide range of topics including Small Business Advice, Tax and Accounting, Interior Design, House Renovation and Project Management.