Care takers of wheelchair users must be knowledgeable of the needs of the wheelchair user. The care takers or caregivers must also be aware of the many features of the wheelchair and how to operate it safely.
The caregiver or personal assistant of the wheelchair user helps the wheelchair user in many ways. Care takers may be responsible for helping put the wheelchair users self care such as bathing and preparing meals. The caregiver may also be trained to assist with the emotional needs of the wheelchair user.
Many times, the main care taker is a family member of the wheelchair user. The main caregiver has a lot of responsibility for the physical well-being of the wheelchair user. Caregiving can be exhausting especially since the caregiver must lift and move the wheelchair user.
The primary caregiver may go through training for instruction on caring for the wheelchair user. At a minimum, the primary caregiver should have received instructions on the proper way to maneuver the wheelchair safely as well as the routine maintenance of the wheelchair. The primary caregiver must feel comfortable with doing necessary tasks such as assisting the Wheelchair user over a sidewalk curb.
Transporting the wheelchair user is another necessary task for which the caregiver must be prepared. Helping the wheelchair user in and out of the vehicle safely is important knowledge for a caregiver. The caregiver often has the additional stress of keeping track of the wheelchair user's appointments and making sure the wheelchair user attends the appointments on time.
It's very important for the caregiver to take care of their own needs as well. The caretaker must be aware of their own limits and enlist the help of a professional care attendant, friends, or family member when necessary. Stress from caregiving can cause emotional and physical wear on the caregiver if they do not pay attention to their own needs.
If possible, caregivers should consider hiring a professional personal attendant on regular basis to allow the caregiver to have a break and take time to themselves. Having their own time can do a lot to relieve stress associated with caregiving.
The care taker should not allow themselves to be isolated, but should make time to socialize with people other than the wheelchair user. Sometimes caregivers will develop resentment towards the wheelchair user, even if that resentment is subconscious. By recognizing their own needs, the caregiver takes necessary steps to provide for their own needs which can help prevent conflict in their relationship with the wheelchair user.