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Caring for a loved one at home can range from providing only minimal help to giving assistance 24 hours a day. The care recipient may need help only with some everyday activities, such as eating, bathing, dressing, or using the toilet, or they may need professional nursing care or other medical help. In all instances, caregiving requires a big commitment on the part of the caregiver.
Caregivers must be able to handle both the physical and emotional aspects of caring for another person. The following are some factors that caregivers need to consider in deciding whether to be (or continue to be) a caregiver:
The safety of the care recipient must be assured in every area of the home to which they have access. Special physical needs of the care recipient (use of a mobility aid, such as a cane or wheelchair) are especially important to consider so that accidents and injuries can be avoided.
The need for medical care will vary depending upon the health of the care recipient, but it is recommended that emergency medical care be be accessible at all times. Caregivers should consider their ability to physically assist the care recipient (lifting, bathing, walking, turning in bed, etc.,) as well as perform such tasks as changing dressings or administering medication.
Consideration must be given as to how products, equipment, alterations to the home and outside assistance (day care, nursing care, etc.) will be paid for (insurance, financial aid services, savings, etc.)
Caregivers should consider whether they have the time, aptitude and attitude necessary to be a caregiver. Assistance should be sought from others (relatives, neighbors, friends, or organizations) whenever possible to provide the caregiver with some respite from their duties.
The caregiver must take into account not only the emotional needs of the care recipient (need for privacy, companionship, etc.), but also his or her own emotional needs, and the needs of others who may be providing care and/or living with the care recipient (spouse, children, etc.)
Many caregivers say that they get a great deal of satisfaction from their role, even though their job may be difficult. All caregivers should also periodically reassess their situation to be sure that the level of care being provided is appropriate for both the care recipient and themselves.
For more information on caregiving, visit our Links page and look under the subject heading "Caregiving". You can also contact us for more information or assistance.
