Top 10 Ways for Caregivers to Spend Dollars Wisely
 By Kris Maxham, Staff Writer

Many caregivers grapple with financial choices that can allow them to continue providing care, support their loved one’s needs and keep them safe. Here are some actual ways that caregivers have wisely invested their dollars:

1. An Adult Day Program to support the care receiver and allow the caregiver some respite or the ability to stay employed.
2. Durable medical equipment such as bath benches, safety bars, raised toilet seats or portable commodes.
3. ID or medical alert bracelets especially for those with dementia or chronic medical conditions.
4. A personal emergency response system (PERS) to summon help when the caregiver is out of the home.
5. Home delivered meals to support the nutritional needs of both the caregiver and0the0care receiver.
6. Personal care attendant0to accompany0the caregiver and their loved one to weddings, reunions, meetings or parties. 
7. Weekly house-keeping services and chore services for lawn care, snow removal and repairs.
8. Personal wandering alarm or home or door alarms to support the safety of a loved one who may wander.
9. A lawyer to assist with questions, prepare legal papers and get personal affairs in order.
10. Use of in-home or group respite programs to allow time for personal needs or time to attend a local caregiver support and education group.

There are many options available to support the role of the caregiver. Spending dollars where they will matter the most can be the key to a caregiver’s capacity to endure and to the well-being of the care receiver.

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