Practical Solutions

Caregiver Circle

PREP AND PLAN WITH A CHECKLIST

When moving a loved one into your home who needs complete care, setting up their room requires preparation and planning to deal with multiple caregivers, along with a few other items. Here is a quick checklist.

Labels on all items, especially medical equipment

Clipboard (for instructions, log of daily care, etc.)

Prescription chart of all medications

A movable cart

A go-bag and list of all medications packed in case of hospitalization

A Ring camera or infant monitor

Keyless entry with door code and remote locks for the house (for extra caregivers who may need to enter the home so that the family doesn’t have to constantly answer the door.) — Michelle Tupper Butler, caregiver

THREE SKILLS EVERY CAREGIVER NEEDS

When someone becomes a caregiver for the first time, there can be a lot of fear and uncertainty on what to do. Here are a few skills that can help along the way.

• Listen to your patient. See what they need, not what you need.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to ask questions.

• Be an advocate for your patient, whether at home, in the hospital, or at a caregiving community. Know what is going on. Don’t be afraid to ask. — Cathy Wise, caregiver

SIMPLE ACTS OF COMFORT GO A LONG WAY

Asking an older adult what kind of assistance they would like goes a long way in increasing their comfort and reducing frustration. Simple acts such as offering a blanket or sweater can make a huge difference in the comfort of an older adult. It is important you don’t rush older adults, allow plenty of time for visits or appointments to decrease anxiety. — Angela Leinenbach, University of Louisville Associate Professor/Nurse Practitioner

By Lindsay McDonald