Home care has many advantages over institutional care – a familiar environment, privacy and flexibility. But it also carries specific risks that families often underestimate.
1 Most common family mistakes
These mistakes come up most often:
- Poorly set expectations – the family expects more than the caregiver offers
- Unclear communication – rules are never explicitly stated
- Lack of regular feedback – problems accumulate silently
- Over-reliance on one caregiver with no backup plan
2 How to set up the arrangement properly
- Write down what the care includes and what it doesn't – ideally in writing
- Agree on a communication method – when, how and what to report
- Schedule regular review conversations (once a month)
- Have a backup plan in case of caregiver illness or absence
Clear rules at the start prevent misunderstandings down the line. Write down what was agreed.
3 How to monitor care quality
- Ask the person being cared for – how do they feel, what's missing
- Monitor changes in mood and behaviour
- Occasionally come home earlier than planned
- Communicate with the caregiver continuously, not just in crises
4 When the care arrangement stops working
If the situation doesn't improve after an open conversation, it's better to look for a different caregiver – the sooner the better.
- Don't hide problems – an honest conversation is better than quiet tension
- Give the caregiver a chance to improve, but only once
- Always inform the person being cared for of the change in advance and with sensitivity
Written by
CareFamily editorial
Platform for families and caregivers