The Top 10 Skills Caregivers Need to be Successful

Caregivers within senior communities have an extremely important job. As a result, it is important to come equipped with the proper caregiver skills and characteristics. What are the traits of a successful caregiver, and how can you know whether or not you fit the job?

Top 10 Characteristics of Successful Caregivers

Above all else, working as a senior caregiver requires people skills. To connect with residents and make them feel safe and well cared for, the following characteristics must be employed.

1. Trustworthiness

First and foremost, a successful caregiver must be trustworthy. When you step into the role of senior care, families everywhere are trusting you to keep their loved ones healthy, happy, and safe. Consequently, your honesty and integrity matter. Residents need to know they can trust their caregivers.

2. Compassion

Additionally, it is important to be compassionate. Everyone in a senior care facility comes from a different background. Some residents have big families who love them, while other residents might be incredibly lonely with no family or friends to speak of. Some residents might be perfectly healthy, while others have health needs that require extra attention. As a caregiver (or a caregiver seeking employment), a little compassion goes a long way.

3. Organization

An often-overlooked caregiver skill is the ability to organize. It might seem a bit administrative in nature, but caregivers need to take initiative, and organization is the easiest way to do that. Know your residents, memorize their needs, stay updated on facility changes, follow the daily schedule, etc.

4. Composure

Occasionally, urgent situations arise in the senior community. As a skilled caregiver, it is important not to lose your cool. Instead, remain composed and follow the proper procedures.

5. Observation

Again, to take the proper initiative as a senior caregiver requires a little extra observation. For example, perhaps a resident who normally greets you cheerfully each morning is paying no attention to anyone on this particular day. Observe the difference, take initiative, and check on them.

6. Physical Stamina

Senior community team members are on their feet a lot. As a result, it is important to have some physical stamina built up so you can be fully present for the residents.

7. Positivity

Caregivers seeking employment should know that working in a senior community requires a cheerful, positive attitude. Many residents battle loneliness and negativity, which caregivers can only combat with a kind word and understanding smile. Positivity plays just as big of a role as compassion in the success of a caregiver.

8. Patience

Likewise, it is important to remain patient with residents, families, coworkers, and uncontrollable situations. Longsuffering and composure make a great caregiver.

9. Multitasking Abilities

Like any other nurse or assistant, those who work in senior care must be able to multitask. Often, several residents need things at once during the busiest time of day, and juggling becomes an important skill. Fortunately, multitasking can be picked up with practice.

10. Flexibility

Finally, a successful caregiver is flexible. Go with the flow, be kind and loving, and smile at any situation that arises. Working in senior care is incredibly rewarding and worth mastering every skill necessary.

Are You Interested in Becoming a Caregiver?

Colavria Hospitality is a local, family-owned company specializing in assisted living, rehabilitation, and long-term care in the greater Denver area. If you are looking for a wonderful senior community or are interested in joining our team, call us today.