Can a caregiver leave during treatment?

LifeCare Therapists

It is tricky when a caregiver, loved one, family member etc. wants to leave the home and take a break while you are providing your therapy services. The rule of thumb to use in these situations is that if a patient can not be left alone safely then they are not allowed to leave during therapy.

Reasons for this rule:

1. If a caregiver or responsible party is not back in time then you would need to stay until they got back which could make you late for future apts.

2. You are NOT a caregiver , you are not responsible if patient has caregiving needs that arise, i.e. incontinences, dementia behaviors, etc.

3. Safety- it is not ok for you to be the sole caretaker in a situation with a patient

Please have this conversation with anyone who is asking you to be alone during a therapy services period BEFORE making the decision for them to leave. You are not there as an aide or for respite purposes, but for therapy.