Why Adaptability Is the Key to Caregiving
You might be surprised at some of the things we are asked to do within our scope of practice
Last weekend I picked up an individual from a local long-term care facility and drove her to Cranbrook to attend her late husband’s funeral. I spent the day looking after her during the service and two gatherings that followed. This lovely woman was surrounded by an enormous group of family and friends from far and wide. My job was to keep a close eye on her and making sure she had everything she needed so that her family could focus on their own grief and catching up with loved ones.
Understanding Adaptability in Care
Adaptability was key in this circumstance, as I didn’t know anyone in this family and was very newly acquainted with the client I was caring for. I found myself feeling very honored to be a part of this extremely personal and private day. It was necessary for me to be involved in conversations and situations that were not familiar to me; they were very religious and I am not. I sat through a funeral service for a man I’d never met and drank coffee with people who were in morning and at their most vulnerable. Being sensitive and empathetic as well as being a great listener was very important. My ability to adjust my thoughts, behaviors, and actions in response to these new circumstances was essential. It’s not just about surviving unexpected challenges; it’s about welcoming them. Adaptable caregivers need to quickly analyze a situation, let go of personal feelings, and embrace what’s in front of them. This flexibility allows them to move fluidly through whatever the day brings them. With an open mind, a competent and compassionate Care Aide can go anywhere.
How Care Aides Can Develop Adaptability
Adaptability isn’t just an innate trait; it’s a skill you can develop with practice and intention. Here are a few strategies to help you become more adaptable:
1. Embrace Lifelong Learning: Stay curious and open to new information. Attend workshops, read widely, and seek out diverse perspectives.
2. Practice Flexibility: Be willing to adjust your plans and expectations when circumstances change. Try saying “yes” to new experiences, even if they’re outside your comfort zone.
3. Reflect and Reframe: When faced with an unfamiliar situation, ask yourself what you can learn from the situation. Instead of seeing change as a threat, view it as an opportunity for growth.
4. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who encourage adaptability. Share ideas, collaborate, and learn from others’ experiences.
Conclusion
The world of a Health Care Aide will continue to change—often in ways we can’t predict. By embracing adaptability, you’ll not only build a valuable skill set but also find success and fulfillment in a myriad of ways. Are you ready to adapt and find meaning in your work?