Understand the role of family caregiver with these helpful tips.
It might have begun informally, with some support here and there. Picking up some things from the supermarket for your aging parent. Dropping off the extra dinner you made while fixing your own family’s meal. Or simply spending more time visiting to ensure things are ok.
Over time, you may have discovered that more care has become required more often than not. Think you’re up to the task of taking on the role of family caregiver?
A caregiver’s job is remarkably fulfilling. It also consists of a significant level of responsibility, which may feel challenging. These steps can help you ensure the bases are covered in looking after an older loved one.
Safety
There are two main components to safety for seniors:
- Security at Home: Improve the security of the senior’s home by installing a peep hole in the door and locks that are both strong and simple for the senior to use. It is also a smart idea to remove the senior’s name from the mailbox to prevent con artists from trying to acquire access by pretending to know the senior. There should be adequate outside lighting. Utilize motion-detection sensors that turn lights on when triggered.
- Fall Prevention: Older adult falls can be devastating. Avoid falls by eliminating throw rugs and any other tripping hazards, installing sturdy handrails and grab bars, and removing all clutter and low furniture in the senior’s walking paths.
Managing Money
If the senior is challenged by cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s disease, it is especially important to help with money management. However, in any circumstance, it’s a good idea to work together with your aging parent to review bills, bank accounts, insurance coverage, etc. to ensure that, if the time comes that you need to take control of these tasks, you are fully equipped.
Companionship
Spending quality time with a senior is a very important component to caregiving. While sharing a cup of tea and conversation may just be second nature to you, for an isolated senior, it could mean the world. Be certain never to let all of the required duties overshadow the need to simply enjoy quality time together.
Overall Health
Looking after an older loved one’s health includes ensuring physical activity, healthy eating and sleep practices, and proper medication management. Engaging in healthy lifestyle decisions together is a fantastic way to avoid the feeling of being overbearing or parenting your parent. Sign up together for a workout, swimming, or dance class. Experiment with new recipes together. Pick up a pill organizer, if the senior is not currently using one, so medications are taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. And if the senior agrees with the idea, attending doctors’ appointments together often helps make sure all questions are answered and recommendations are understood.
How Home Care Can Help
Finding a care partner is essential for both your parent’s health and your own. No one can be expected to address all the care needs necessary themselves. At Absolute Companion Care, a provider of home care that Sparks, MD families depend on, we offer respite care solutions that allow family caregivers time to pause and take breaks from care as often as they need. Reach out to us at 410-357-9640 for a complimentary in-home assessment to learn more. Please visit our Service Area page for a full list of the areas where we offer care.