Top Secrets Of Becoming a Caregiver: Elderly Caregiving Tip For Friends and Family
1.Before your loved one moves in, or is already living with you – make a list of all medications taken, the quantity, how many times taken, along with name and number of the Pharmacy.
2.Have all health insurance information handy, as well as the person’s social security number and name of all doctors. Also make sure you know your loved one’s birthday, especially the year she or he was born.
3.Moving into the spare bedroom? Does the mattress need to be closer to the floor? Look into purchasing mobility options for them, such as a pull up bar that hangs above the bed, or lifting and handling equipment. Other equipment may consist of scooters, wheelchairs, wheelchair ramps and portable toilets.
4.Baby monitors work great, which allows caregivers to hear their loved ones during the day and even during the night hours.
5.Talk to the rest of your family. If necessary sit down and have a family discussion about the importance of the role you are taking in caring for this person. Discuss the difficulties you will face and what you expect from the others. Maybe each person can take turns with certain details.
6.Depending on the health and mobility of your loved one, find some kind of group for elderly people. For instance, if they are suffering with Alzheimer’s, search for a meeting place nearby your home, such as a local church. There are many resources available. Some of these places may even offer transportation.
7.Research local help groups for you as well. Caring for someone other than you and your immediate family can be a daunting and exhausting task. Find others out there you can talk and relate to.
8.Inquire with other families and/or doctor about employing someone outside of the family to help in assisting you with day to day chores, or even if you just want to take some time off. Doctor offices usually know someone who is trustworthy and looking for work in elder sitting.
9.When taking care of an elder parent/grandparent or whoever it may be, nights can sometimes be tough. If he or she is having trouble sleeping and is unable to communicate, talk with their doctor. Perhaps he or she will suggest something you have not thought of. There may be a safe sleep medication that can help as well. Also, watch for the naps during the day. Everyone enjoys a good nap, but sometimes our loved ones will want to sleep all day! If so, they won’t be sleeping much at night.
10.Activities – give them something to do. For example, folding clothes such as washcloths or undergarments. Nothing to large or difficult, just something to keep them busy, especially with their hands. Consider doing a children’s puzzle with them, or even coloring. Did they like to bake before moving in with you? Bake some cookies or make some bread and the next time you take them out for an outing, let them share some of what they made.
