“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Luke 6:45
From the multitude of “caregivers” I dealt with in taking care of Mama, I’ve come to define a caregiver as one who cares. That may seem obvious, but just because someone bills themself as a caregiver does not make them a caregiver. If that person doesn’t care or doesn’t give care, that person is not a “caregiver.” That person is a sitter.
Sitters sit. I learned that the hard way and share this hoping you won’t make the same mistake. In Mama’s case they were there to pull a paycheck, so they just sat and watched TV, or looked for something of value to steal, and when asked to help-out, chose to walk out instead.
If you’ve reached the point when you must hire a caregiver, consider these qualifications:
- They must care.
- They must love caring for people.
- They must have loads of patience.
- They must love serving others.
Finding a caring caregiver is worth the effort. First, ask for recommendations from within your own trusted extended family, circle of friends, and especially among your church family. Some may be willing to take turns on a limited basis.
When I had exhausted all those options, I ran an ad in the classifieds for Christian caregivers and found the most loving lady even though she had never had a job. For three years, she ran Mama’s household the same way she ran her own. When she turned in her notice, that’s when our troubles began.
Ask God to put your discerning spirit on high alert for red flags when contacting agencies and independent “caregivers.” The words they speak, and the attitude of their delivery will tell you all you need to know. Be sure to ask…
- What makes you a good caregiver?
- Do you have references?
- What will they tell me when I call them?”
- Do you mind if I run a background check?
If they become indignant, let them go. If your questions are welcomed, you might have a keeper.
Remember, when you are putting your loved one in the hands of someone you don’t know, you must be cautious, discerning good and evil.
