The Top 5 Habits of Successful Live-In Family Members Caring For a Loved One
Family caregivers living at home with a senior loved one often experience significant levels of stress. If people in this situation aren't careful, they can quickly burn out and let the chronic stress lead to illness. The most successful live-in family members caring for a loved one have a few habits that make things easier to handle. Following them can help.
Establishing a Routine
The first step is to establish a solid routine that makes the situation easier for both the caregiver and the one being cared for. Writing out a plan for each day can help stay on task and ensure all necessary duties are met. A schedule may look like this:
- Breakfast and necessary medications
- Bathing and dressing
- Cognitive activity, such as a game or puzzle
- A walk or chair exercises
- Lunch and necessary medications
- Movie or TV time
- A special planned activity
- Dinner and necessary medications
- Reading time
- Pajamas and bedtime routine
Every family will have differing schedules. It's important to include activities that the senior enjoys, and ensure medication times are correct on the list. Some people may require just one pill per day, while others have a myriad of medications they take throughout the day to stay healthy.
Employing a Proper Communication Strategy
It is also wise to set a proper communication strategy. Not all seniors can articulate what they need well, especially when facing cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's. Finding an effective way to communicate, be it over text message, with back-and-forth written notes on a whiteboard, or otherwise, is key. Another great option for those who struggle with both verbal communication and dexterity is to have a bell or nurse call button to push that lets the caregiver know when help is required.
Making Self-Care a Priority
Caregivers need to make self-care a priority and not just an afterthought. It truly is important for an individual to ensure their own needs are met, or they won't last long handling the needs of another person. Without time for exercise, fun, quiet time, and time with other family and friends off the clock, it will only lead to heightened feelings of stress. This, in turn, can lead to poor sleep, irritability, and even illness.
Learning to Recognize Signs of Illness Early
One of the biggest concerns is when an elderly loved one goes downhill quickly. When an illness sets in, it can lead to increased stress for both parties. Learning to recognize signs of illness early and treat them before they become something serious can help keep stress levels to a minimum. Once a severe sickness takes hold, it may require more involved care or even a hospital stay. Learning the signs and getting guidance from the person's doctor promptly will help.
Seeking Respite Care With Senior Helpers Warren
Yet another helpful habit for live-in caregivers is to seek respite care when a break is needed. Respite services allow your loved one the attention they need while you can take time away for yourself. Contact Senior Helpers of Warren, Millcreek, West County, Erie, Fairview, Harborcreek, Bear Lake, Chandlers Valley, or Clarendon to get assistance with daily activities when necessary.