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Power Caregiving

Know that your questions and concerns are important and welcome by healthcare
facilities. Routinely ask to review your loved one’s current care plan and seek accountability for its application.  Post a sign in your family member’s or friend’s room stating your requests. You can gently remind health professionals by posting a simple message about how a special drinking cup enhances your dad’s eating independence. Suggest that they set the television to a favorite cable network or radio to a preferred talk station to broaden your husband’s world.

If you have home care help, list their duties in a spiral notebook and request that they check off what they have accomplished in your absence. That way, you will get an idea of their pace and if your requests are reasonable. Encourage home care personnel to write their comments and questions for continued clarification and to maintain practical communication. This way, you will develop an open dialogue for the ultimate benefit of your loved one.

2.   Organization: Caregiving brings another dimension to your life as you become
adept in an another arena. To better manage this added area of your life, create an extra column in your planner in order to address the specific concerns of the person that you assist. Keep track of developing priorities there and follow up as needs warrant.

When attending a care conference or medical appointment, come with a list of questions and concerns. In order to bring focus and clarity to these meetings, stating issues and concerns in writing for all in attendance helps save time for the busy professionals involved.

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