List Your In-home Caregiver’s Responsibilities to Prevent Misunderstandings

Whether your parent's in-home caregiver is a certified nursing assistant, a personal care attendant, or a home health aide, writing down job responsibilities at the start helps prevent misunderstandings down the line. Make the list as detailed as possible: for example, spelling out what housecleaning includes (toilet scrubbing, sweeping the patio, and doing laundry). Be as detailed as you can, including tasks such as lifting your parent from his wheelchair to the toilet or bed, taking him on daily walks, and giving him medicine. If possible, write out the list with the caregiver so it's a mutual project. If and when job uncertainties pop up later, whether from you, your parent, or the caregiver, you can refer back to the list for guidance. Uncertainties can also indicate the need to revisit and update everyone's expectations.

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Definition of Certified Nursing Assistant

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) have some medical training and must pass an exam to get a license. They generally work under the supervision of registered nurses. CNAs can check vital signs, care for wounds, and help your parents with everyday activities like bathing and eating (often referred to as activities of daily living, or ADLs)

See Also

1. Certified Nursing Assistant Related Content
2. Daily Care