10/10/2016
Every one of us likes to dress well, we follow fashion – perhaps! Either way, we have our own style of dressing. However, when we take on the job of caring we should take a little time to think about the way we dress.
The first – and most important - thing to think about is the client. While this may be common sense to some, you will - sooner or later - come across a carer who just does not dress appropriately. Some agencies will sell you t-shirts which they consider good dress sense, and with this in mind, it’s a good idea to model your dress choices on that. Sleeves are good, as are collars, or at least a relatively high neck line. What is not acceptable dress wear are strappy tops with low neck lines, especially if your client is a man. You should always bear in mind that you will be stooping down, probably in front of your client and he really does not need to see your cleavage. Remember that some diseases will affect a client’s mental behaviour, so you should make sure that your behaviour is faultless when it comes to dressing. Sexual harassment is ugly and you never want to be accused of aggravating the situation.
It really is a good idea to wear shoes with closed toes. Probably the only time when you may choose not to wear closed shoes is if you are certain there is no wheelchair there. You will only get your toes ridden over once before you change your mind here! It’s no joke, and can easily damage a toenail so badly it will eventually drop of. Even in summer, you might be better off with even a light pair of closed toed shoes.
Chains around your neck and big dangly earrings are great for a night out, but combined with a client who is possibly unsteady and may fall, and grab at anything to stop this, you might find your chain or earrings torn from you. Both you and your client will be hurt. Best to keep this sort of accessory for when you are not with a client.
A point to remember is that most houses you go to are going to be hot! Think summer! Most of your clients will be elderly and will feel the cold. It may be snowing outside but inside you will be nice and toasty – or rather boiling hot! You may want to consider short sleeved for inside with a jumper to put on top in the early mornings. Anything you can easily take off as you and the house warm up. After that you need clothing appropriate for the season.
Remember that it is possible to have all four seasons in one day in the UK and it will more than likely rain at least once a week. Invariably this will happen as you are preparing to go out on your break so a lightweight rain jacket is perfect. Definitely take something you can fold up and squash into a bag when the rain stops.
One thing to consider is that in the course of your work you will invariably get your clothes soiled. It’s a good idea to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messed up and well used. Keep your special clothes for your own outings.
