What are 4 Types of Caregivers?
There are instances in life when people are not able to care for themselves. These instances may be the result of illness, aging and other such circumstances. When this happens, these individuals may require more support than their family members can provide. Fortunately, professional assistance can be provided to meet various needs including medical assistance, personal care and even emotional support. However, caregiving is a broad field. There are different levels of support that can be provided by different types of professionals. It is important that you identify your needs and determine which professional would be best suited for your circumstances. Below we answer the question ‘what are 4 types of caregivers?’ and provide an overview of what kind of assistance each professional can provide.
Levels of Caregiving
Different people require different levels of care. The levels of care provided by professionals can be broadly categorized as:
- Informal – this level of care is designed to meet the personal care needs of the patient as well as to provide emotional and psychological support. This care is often provided by family members who may or may not have qualifications in this field.
- Intermediate – This type of care is provided by informal caregivers. These caregivers may not be health professionals but may have skills that can help meet the needs of the patient and family. For example, the caregiver may help with errands, transportation, housework and more.
- Professional – This type of caregiving is provided by a trained professional. They may include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, therapists and home health aides. This level of caregiving is designed to meet specific health needs as well as to provide specialized support and care for the patient within their homes.
Different types of caregivers have skills and qualifications that allow them to provide services within specific levels of care. Understanding the qualifications and skills of these professionals will help you find the right match for your household.
Types of Caregivers
If you’re considering care for a loved one, it is important to begin by determining your loved ones’ needs. A good understanding what kinds of caregivers there are will also help you identify the right type of service to seek for your loved one. There are 4 main types of care providers:
- Professional care providers
These are professionals with years of formal training in healthcare or caregiving. They may be certified or licensed. There are different types of professionals that you may want to engage depending on your needs and requirements. They include:
- Nurses – these include licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses. These professionals have skills and training in medical care. They are a good option for providing care where the medical requirements are high.
- Nursing assistants – these are certified professionals with training in healthcare. They can provide services to assist with daily living activities.
- Therapists – these are professionals that are trained and qualified in specific fields such as physical therapy or speech therapy. They can assist in addressing specific needs and rehabilitation.
- Home health aides – these are similar to nursing assistants and can provide support for personal care and other personal needs. They are, however, not certified professionals.
- Family caregivers
These are the most common type of caregiver and the most accessible. They may include parents, grown-up children, spouses and siblings. These individuals love their charge and offer to provide emotional and physical care and support. They often work in close corporation with professional, informal or volunteer care providers.
- Informal caregivers
These are also quite common especially in communities or networks that are close-knit. They may include neighbors, friends and acquaintances. These individuals offer their services to support the family or the person requiring care. They may provide services such as transportation, running errands or helping with housework.
- Volunteers
These are individuals that offer their services for free. They support those in need of care services but may not have the financial ability to access these services.
If you’re in need of home health care services in Woodinville, WA, contact us, Companion Care. We’d be glad to discuss your situation and requirements. We’ll match you to the professional that will best meet your needs.