The challenges & rewards of caregiver training

Home care is no longer the stepchild of the rehabilitation delivery system. It now attracts the best clinicians the field has to offer. Understanding the dynamics of the patient-caregiver relationship is critical, as is integrating the strengths and limitations of the caregiver into the rehabilitation program. The experience of the physical therapist (PT) and his or her ability to understand and respect the needs and the strengths of these individuals can result in a comfortable working relationship and a higher level of function and quality of life.