Providing care for an aging loved one presents a unique set of challenges. The additional responsibility may at times seem overwhelming. However, by using a few tips and tricks along the way, caregivers can make their duties and the lives of their loved ones a little easier.
Use Alarms
Mobile devices typically give users the ability to set daily, weekly, monthly, and annual alarms. Alarms act as reminders for taking daily medications, running errands, and paying bills. This way, you won’t forget to take your loved one to his or her next healthcare appointment, pick the kids up from school, or take the time to relax and unwind.
Caring for an older adult can be challenging for family caregivers who have other responsibilities to tend to. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality senior home care, Home Care Assistance can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.
Create DIY Adaptive Items for Seniors with Arthritis
Older people living with arthritis often have difficulty accomplishing simple daily tasks due to the loss of fine motor function in their hands. Foam hair rollers, kitty play balls, and tennis balls can come in handy to address this issue. Simply remove the plastic from the hair curler or drill a hole into a ball. Insert a toothbrush, eating utensil, pen, or pencil. The larger surface area makes the item easier to grip and maneuver when arthritis flares. Tennis balls are also great to put on the bottom of ambulation walkers to prevent floor damage.
Clothing fasteners can also be challenging for seniors with arthritis. An unfolded paper clip works great for buttons. Simply uncurl the clip while leaving the inside curve intact. Attach the straight edge to a spoon or a piece of wood to serve as the handle, then pass the curved end through the buttonhole and around the button and pull through.
Performing even minor tasks can be difficult for older adults with arthritis. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Fair Oaks Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Consolidate Shopping
Caregivers who don’t live with their loved ones may find it difficult and time-consuming to shop for two households. However, by combining shopping trips, you save time, gas, and money. You and your loved one should go grocery shopping together if he or she is able. Use coolers, insulated bags, or similar devices to store perishable items for the trip home. Help your loved one unload and store the day’s haul, then take your groceries home and do the same.
Take Pictures Before Going Grocery Shopping
In the event you forget to make a shopping list, or if you simply wish to save time, consider taking pictures of your cupboard, pantry, and refrigerator interiors with your smartphone. Once you get to the store, look at the pictures and decide what items you’re missing or need to replenish.
Put Together a Bug-Out Bag
Survivalists commonly have bug-out bags filled with essentials for when they need to leave a destination in a hurry. The same concept can be applied to caregiving. Include medications and treatments, wet wipes, tissues, clothing changes, snacks, and beverages. You can also include an iPod, books, or magazines for entertainment. When the time comes to go to an appointment or an emergency strikes, grab the bag and go.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Fair Oaks, CA, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. Call us at (916) 485-4663 to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.