Caregiver Essentials

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  Preparing the home

  You may need to make some home updates to help your care recipient with their physical mobility needs by keeping essentials nearby for their personal health.

  • Mobility
    • Bathroom: Install a shower bar, shower mat, toilet bar & toilet riser.
    • Mudroom or Foyer: Based on their needs, supply a cane, walker or rollator.
    • Bedroom: Install a bed rail to help them in and out of bed.
    • Home tech: Consider adding smart cameras, smart lighting, and smart plugs to assist when you aren’t physically present.
  • Personal Care
    • Kitchen: Look for nutrition-packed shakes or thickeners if they have difficulty swallowing.
    • Bathroom & bedroom: Provide specialty wear and pads for incontinence.
    • Medicine cabinet: Get a pill reminder app or organizer to keep track of their medications.
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  Preparing yourself

  It can be difficult to see the one you care for aging and in need of additional help. While they’re still the person you know and love, your relationship has changed, and it’s natural to grieve.

  • Connect with each other
    • Take time out of each day to have a conversation with your loved one—it can be immensely rewarding to reminisce about the past
    • Take them to the park or for a drive to make new memories.
  • Disconnect from stress
    • Give yourself permission to take time away and recharge
    • Involve other family members as much as possible for a community experience
    • It can be helpful to discuss your experiences with people who have been on a similar journey
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  Ongoing care

  After you’ve done your prep and updated your home environment, the next step is to ensure you both have the best quality of life possible.

  • Physically
    • Maintain dignity: When assisting with private needs like dressing or toileting, set up a routine to allow for personal space and time
    • Grooming: Ensure they maintain the same level of grooming that they’re used to
  • Emotionally
    • Show them care & empathy at all times and don’t forget to take time for your own self-care
    • Engage them socially with friends and family, religious groups, caregiver groups and senior centers
    • Engage their mind with old hobbies, books, games, puzzles or other activities to help stay mentally sharp

While becoming a loved one’s caregiver can be overwhelming, you are already taking the first and most important step by educating yourself about their needs. The journey may be difficult, but it can also be one of the most rewarding jobs you’ll have. We’re here to support you every step of the way.