One thing clients sometimes struggle with is knowing what we mean when we say our caregivers do “light housekeeping.” I thought I’d explain it, and hopefully this will clear up some common questions.
What Is Light Housekeeping?
Light housekeeping is what I would call basic housework; definitely important but not intense scrubbing with a toothbrush. We’re talking about vacuuming, taking the trash out, cooking, dusting, wiping down counters. Anything that would usually be on someone’s list of cleaning chores.
What Can I Ask My Caregiver to Do?
Any of what I mentioned, but also, you don’t have to guess! When you sign up with us, tell the office exactly what you want done and we’ll be able to tell you if it falls under light housekeeping or not. And if you change your mind later and want to add or remove housekeeping items then that is totally okay. All you have to do is call the office and we will amend your care plan.
What Happens if I Ask My Caregiver to Do Something Else?
Don’t worry about accidentally asking your caregiver to do something that isn’t included with light housekeeping. They are trained to tell you what they are assigned and not assigned to do. However, you should be familiar with your care plan and what kind of tasks are included in your care. That will be in the binder we keep in every client’s home.
If you are, for example, an out of state family member of one of our clients and is in town visiting them, you can also check on their care plan in that binder, which is kept in a visible location, usually the kitchen or family room.
I hope that this was informative. As always, if you have any questions you can always ask us in the office.
