When a professional caregiver meets a senior client for the first time, one critical task is to get to know the person. Yet, there may be times when the client cannot fully participate in the process. In these situations, it can be difficult to learn the personal details and preferences the caregiver needs in order to engage effectively with the individual on a daily basis.
LivHOME, Inc., the nation's largest provider of professionally led at-home care for seniors, recently introduced a tool to foster successful connections. It is called My Story.
A combination worksheet and poster, My Story contains important personal information including the client's food preferences, hobbies and work history. There is space for the names and ages of children and grandchildren, whether the client has pets, and a description of significant life events.
My Story helps build connections and personalize care, particularly in situations where clients may not be able to communicate personal information to newcomers. Designed from a concept first developed at St. Jude's Medical Center, Fullerton, Calif., My Story promotes easier transitions for clients in their dealings with various caregivers as well as in different caregiving settings.
"Because the client's information is readily available, a caregiver can immediately begin to establish rapport. Even more important than the facts found in My Story, the act of creating the document personalizes the process and focuses on the social aspect of caregiving," said Steve Barlam, LivHOME's chief professional officer.
LivHOME has begun implementing My Story across its markets. LivHOME's professional team of care managers completes a My Story with new clients at the onset of care, with input from the client or family members. The My Story document is shared with all those involved in the senior's care, allowing them to quickly learn more about the person.
Financial advisors, attorneys, hospital discharge planners and other professionals who work with seniors have given My Story high praise. "Knowing about a person's life and preferences allows caregivers to find a deeper connection and to employ personalized strategies when problems arise. You are better able to deliver quality care when your caregivers truly know those they serve," said Michelle Barclay, director of program services at Alzheimer's Association Minnesota-North Dakota.
About LivHOME:
LivHOME is the nation's largest provider of professionally led at-home care for seniors. The company is dedicated to finding solutions that enable older adults to remain in their homes as long as possible. Based in Los Angeles, LivHOME delivers high quality at-home care throughout California as well as select markets in Illinois, Minnesota and Texas. For more information, visit www.LivHOME.com.