You’re probably a great caregiver already. After all, anyone with the desire to help others is a wonderful person. But, some days you may not feel especially good at being a caregiver. On those days, it may help to follow the tips of experts and more experienced caregivers to help you get your mojo back. Below are some tips to elevate you from a great caregiver to an amazing one.
Take Care of You
If you’re feeling a little down or overwhelmed as a caregiver, it can help to take care of your own needs instead of focusing solely on the older adult. Let some items on your to do list slide and rest a bit. Do some deep breathing exercises to relieve stress. Nap when the senior does. Take a few minutes to call a friend or even just watch funny videos on the Internet.
Try Out Some Tech
Caregivers who are having trouble staying as organized as they would like to be might benefit from using apps designed for caregivers. There are apps that can help you to keep track of medications, appointments, and keep other family members and friends up to date about the older adult’s condition.
Keep Medical Information Organized
It’s helpful to keep a file of your older family member’s medical information. Keep the folder organized with notes from appointments, a complete list of medications, contact information for providers, and insurance information. Bring the file with you to the doctor’s office or hospital to ensure you have everything you need on hand and don’t have to backtrack to give medical providers the information they need.
Talk to the Senior About Care
Caregivers can offer better care by letting the older adult contribute to decisions about their care. That way you know you’re providing the care they want and can plan for the future. You may even find that you’re doing too much and they want a little more independence.
Offer Encouragement Often
Your older relative will benefit from hearing encouraging words frequently. Celebrate small steps they take, such as a stroke victim taking even a few steps. Remind the senior that you are with them because you care.
Learn About Resources
Find out about the resources that are available to you and your aging relative. The older adult might be interested in taking advantage of clubs and social gatherings offered by the local senior center. You may find home care an excellent resource since a home care agency can send a professional caregiver to the older adult’s home when you aren’t able to be there or when you need a break.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering a Caregiver in West Orange, NJ or the surrounding areas please contact the caring staff at Perfect Touch Home Care Firm today! (908) 469-2701
Sources
https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/how-be-best-caregiver-you-can-be
https://www.caregiver.org/caregiving-101-being-caregiver
https://caregiveraction.org/resources/10-tips-family-caregivers
About Mildrene Volcy
Mildrene Volcy is the Owner at Perfect Touch Home Care Firm in Elizabeth, NJ. In 2013, Perfect Touch Home Care Firm was established to serve our communities and provide life-enhancing home care services to those who need care and companionship. Our home health care agency makes the patient the center of our care practice. We make it easy for persons who wish to stay at home in their preferred habitat to arrange available services in an easy, dependable, and respectful way. Our team of Certified Licensed Home Health Aides meets and follows the highest standards of integrity, compassion, and dedication to caring for those in need. We even offer professional staffing services for personal and agency needs. Following industry standards, our home health aides and nursing staff can be counted on for various service requirements.