This was the
most nerve wracking element of my Person Centered Plan. It's not only about
finding someone who works in this career as a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) or
Caregiver, and hiring the individual on-the-spot because they work for an
agency. It is finding someone who is compatible with you personality-wise, and
by physical ability.
A PCA is what
a companion and a personal aide. They support me with housekeeping tasks (e.g.
laundry, sweeping, light meal prep., etc.,) In addition, they assist with personal daily
living needs (e.g. getting dressed, using the restroom, bathing, etc.) Relying
on one person is a lot of pressure on both ends. This isn’t to say that it is
impossible. I know some friends who work solely with one person. But there is a
strict and firm understanding of responsibilities and expectations. Therefore,
the ideal situation would be to establish a team. That way no one is burnt out,
and appropriate boundaries between yourself and the service provider roles are
set. Prime players on your team should be people who you feel comfortable being yourself around. Most importantly, they are striving for the same goals: your
success and independence.
The way I am
paired with my PCA’s is by my decision – also known as “self direct.” This also
means [for the moment] that I pay them out-of-pocket until I receive funding
from the Independent Care Waiver Program (ICWP.) I determine who will work with me,
for how many hours during the day, at what rate of pay, and what the duties of
the PCA are – all without a hosting agency.
Being an
attendant care recipient, while going through the self-directed route, is a lot
of responsibility. You are the “boss.” It’s important to play this role
respectfully and effectively. I may have a positive, upbeat, friendly
personality; but if my employee is not carrying out their end of the bargain (ie. Not
starting their shift on time, always on their cell phone, not wearing
appropriate attire - things that negatively impact me,) I have to be an efficient
supervisor and address the issue(s) accordingly. Open communication is the key
for a relationship like this to work for everyone!
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