Which professionals are typically involved in formal caregiving?

Formal caregiving typically refers to the provision of care by trained and licensed professionals who have specific skills and credentials in the healthcare field. This includes certified nursing assistants and nurses, who are qualified to perform a wide range of medical and personal care tasks within various settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals.

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) have training that equips them to assist with daily activities of living such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility for individuals who may be unable to perform these tasks independently. Nurses, including registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), provide more advanced medical care, manage medication, and coordinate overall patient care plans.

In contrast, options such as neighbors, family members, or friends providing help are considered informal caregivers, as they typically do not possess the formal training or credentials required for professional caregiving. While volunteers may offer valuable assistance within the community, they usually do not deliver care at the same level as licensed professionals. Thus, formal caregiving is characterized by the involvement of those who have attained certain qualifications in the healthcare domain, ensuring a standard of care that is necessary for the well-being of individuals receiving assistance.