Caregivers provide assistance to elderly, ill and disabled people in their homes by helping them remain independent. They provide assistance with daily tasks, meal preparation, transportation and companionship.
However, caregivers can easily succumb to stress and burnout if they neglect their own needs. The solution lies in finding a balance between work and relationships.
Preparing Meals
Preparing nutritious meals and snacks is a critical aspect of providing senior care. Not only does it take time and effort, but it is essential for maintaining your loved one’s health and wellbeing.
Eating nutritious food that is low in fat, sugar, and salt will not only benefit a senior’s overall health and energy levels but also their energy level. Without proper nutrition many seniors suffer from malnutrition and a decline in quality of life.
Caregivers who understand a senior’s nutritional requirements will be better equipped to assist their loved one in making positive dietary changes and preventing malnutrition. Furthermore, caregivers can create meals that incorporate various fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods for maximum wellness benefits.
Light Housework
Maintaining a home in good order and cleanliness is essential for everyone’s wellbeing. Not only does this reduce the risk of illness or infection, but it also clears away clutter. Unfortunately, those with mobility or cognitive issues may find their capacity for housework limited due to these issues.
Our in-home caregivers offer light housework as part of their overall care service plan. This can include cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, throwing away spoiled food, taking out trash, changing bed sheets and making beds, plus more.
The extent and type of tasks assigned to an in-home caregiver depend on the preferences of the homeowner. It is essential that both parties agree on these details in order to prevent misunderstandings.
Companionship
Companionship is a crucial aspect of in home care, helping to alleviate boredom, loneliness and isolation for seniors while keeping them mentally stimulated and physically healthy.
Many companions are educated to help their clients engage in social activities that give them a sense of purpose. It may also provide an outlet for sharing feelings and struggles with someone outside the family circle.
Companions may provide emotional support and assist their clients with processing emotions, recognizing unhealthy coping mechanisms. They are also able to recognize the cause of depression and encourage individuals to seek treatment when necessary.
Medication Management
Medications are essential to treating health conditions and relieving symptoms, but they must also be administered correctly. Following instructions from your doctor in regards to timing, dosage and taking medications on schedule can make a big difference in how well-administered they affect you and how well you feel overall.
To ensure you take your medications safely, it’s best if an in-home caregiver is aware of all medications you are taking, their directions on how and when to take them and any potential side effects or interactions. They can monitor your health status and notify doctors, pharmacists or emergency medical personnel of any problems encountered.
Caregiving agencies are setting the bar for medication management. They have created programs that have been recognized by insurance companies, Medicare and Medicaid as effective tools to help their clients maintain healthy lifestyles while improving medication adherence. Through these initiatives, in home caregivers are equipped with all of the knowledge and tools needed to successfully manage medications while helping them reach their health objectives.
Transportation
Transportation is an integral part of home care for your loved one – whether it’s getting out for social outings, special events or trips, or accompanying them to medical appointments. If your loved one isn’t able to drive themselves, finding a highly-skilled caregiver who can provide transportation can help them remain independent and lead the life they deserve.
According to the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC), an initiative of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) and Easterseals, nearly 600,000 older adults nationwide give up driving after age 65. This can make it difficult for seniors to get out and run errands, visit friends, or attend social events; ultimately affecting their wellbeing in the process.