The Broad Term: 'Caregiver' and 'Carer'
At its most basic, a person who takes care of the elderly is known as a caregiver. This is a versatile term that can refer to an unpaid family member, a professional hired through an agency, or a private individual. In some English-speaking regions outside of North America, the term "carer" is also commonly used interchangeably. The responsibilities of a caregiver are diverse, ranging from assistance with daily activities to providing emotional support and managing household tasks.
Professional Caregiving Roles
When a person has formal training and is compensated for their work, they fall into more specific professional categories. The title used often depends on their specific credentials and the scope of services they are authorized to provide. Understanding the differences is crucial when seeking the right level of care.
Home Health Aide (HHA)
An HHA is a trained professional who provides medical-related and personal care services within a client's home. These tasks can include checking vital signs, helping with prescribed exercises, and administering certain medications. HHAs typically have more rigorous training requirements than personal care assistants and often work under the supervision of a registered nurse or other medical professional.
Personal Care Aide (PCA)
Also known as personal care assistants, these providers focus primarily on non-medical, personal care tasks. A PCA helps with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility assistance. They also assist with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), like meal preparation and light housekeeping. Unlike HHAs, PCAs do not provide medical services.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNAs are healthcare professionals who have completed state-approved training and passed a competency exam. They typically work in a nursing home or other facility, but some may work in home health settings. CNAs perform tasks similar to HHAs but operate under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse.
Respite Care Provider
Respite care is temporary, short-term relief for a primary family caregiver. A respite care provider steps in to take over caregiving duties for a short period, allowing the regular caregiver to rest and recharge.
Informal and Family Caregiving
Many people who care for an elderly person do so without formal training or pay. These individuals are typically family members, friends, or neighbors.
Family Caregiver
As the name suggests, a family caregiver is a relative, such as a child, spouse, or sibling, who provides unpaid care for a loved one. This is an incredibly common arrangement, and family caregivers often handle a wide range of tasks, from running errands to managing finances and coordinating medical appointments. This role can be emotionally and physically demanding, and many resources exist to support them.
Informal Caregiver
This broader term can refer to any unpaid individual who provides care, including friends and neighbors, in addition to family members. Their involvement can be intermittent or consistent, providing a crucial support network for the senior.
A Comparison of Professional vs. Family Caregiving
Understanding the key differences between these care options can help families decide what path is best for their situation.
| Feature | Professional Caregiver | Family Caregiver |
|---|---|---|
| Training & Credentials | Formally trained and often certified (HHA, CNA). | Typically no formal training; learn on the job. |
| Scope of Services | Clearly defined by role (e.g., medical vs. non-medical) and contract. | Varies widely based on the individual's abilities and relationship. |
| Payment | Compensated through a salary, hourly wage, or agency fee. | Unpaid, though some government programs may offer stipends. |
| Support & Boundaries | Agency oversight, backup care, and clear professional boundaries. | Risk of burnout, emotional strain, and potential codependency. |
| Cost | Can be more expensive, but may be covered by insurance or government programs. | Can be less expensive upfront, but carries potential financial strain on the caregiver. |
How to Choose the Right Type of Care
Selecting the right care provider for an elderly loved one involves careful consideration of their needs and your family's circumstances. Use this numbered list as a guide:
- Assess the level of need. Determine if the senior requires medical assistance, help with daily activities, or just companionship. A medical condition requiring monitoring may necessitate an HHA or CNA, while companionship and light help can be provided by a PCA or family member.
- Evaluate financial resources. Understand what the family can afford and what long-term care insurance, Medicare, or other government programs will cover. Researching costs and financial options is a critical step.
- Consider the family dynamic. Discuss openly whether a family member has the time, emotional capacity, and willingness to take on the role of caregiver. Be honest about the potential for burnout and strain on the relationship.
- Decide between agency and private hire. An agency handles all the legal and tax complexities, provides backup care, and ensures proper screening. A private hire may be cheaper but requires the family to take on employer responsibilities.
- Utilize national resources. The federal government provides resources and assistance for older adults and their families. An excellent starting point is the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which offers a wide range of information and connections to local services. Administration for Community Living
Services Provided by Elder Care Professionals
Professional care providers offer a wide range of services to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly. While the exact duties depend on the specific role, common responsibilities often include:
- Assistance with daily living activities: Bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Meal preparation: Planning and cooking nutritious meals, and assisting with feeding if necessary.
- Medication management: Ensuring medications are taken on schedule and accurately.
- Light housekeeping: Performing tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and organizing.
- Mobility assistance: Helping with transferring from beds and chairs, and assisting with walking.
- Companionship: Providing social interaction to combat loneliness and isolation.
- Transportation: Driving clients to appointments, errands, and social outings.
Finding and Hiring a Care Provider
When it's time to hire, a structured process ensures you find the best fit for your loved one. Here are some key steps:
- Create a job description: Clearly outline the required duties, schedule, and any special skills or qualifications needed. This will attract the most suitable candidates.
- Conduct thorough interviews: Ask specific questions about experience, training, work ethic, and personality to gauge compatibility.
- Perform comprehensive background checks: Verify references, confirm certifications, and run criminal and driving record checks to ensure safety.
- Draft a formal employment contract: Put everything in writing—pay rate, schedule, duties, and termination policies. This protects both parties and sets clear expectations.
- Manage legal and tax obligations: If hiring independently, you are responsible for managing payroll, withholding taxes, and adhering to labor laws. An agency handles all of this for you.
Conclusion
From the informal title of family caregiver to the highly trained professional home health aide, there are many answers to the question, what do you call a person who takes care of the elderly? The most appropriate term depends on the specific context, including the caregiver's relationship to the senior, their training, and the services they provide. By understanding these distinctions and carefully assessing your needs, you can find the right person to provide compassionate and competent care for your loved one.
