Life hacks for various topics are frequently advertised online. These shortcuts are designed to make certain tasks easier or to save time. Family caregivers can save themselves time and trouble by implementing some tips and tricks learned by experienced caregivers.
1. Organize Paperwork
In the event of an emergency, caregivers can save time by keeping important documents in one location. Use a folder to keep your loved one’s advanced directives, health insurance policies, a list of medications, and a power of attorney along with any other documents you might need in a hurry, including paperwork concerning financial and legal information.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you need help caring for your loved one and ensuring he or she remains organized. Home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Combine Chores
When you go grocery shopping for your loved one, pick up items for your household at the same time, and run errands for both yourself and your parent simultaneously. This way, you have more time to spend with your loved one, and you can rest easy knowing the chores are done.
3. Keep a Trip Bag Handy
Whether you need to take your loved one to a doctor’s appointment or you’re going on an outing for the day, having a special trip bag ready can help you and your loved one beat boredom. Take a smartphone or tablet to listen to music or podcasts. Books, puzzles, or even a small DVD player can help you pass the time in a waiting room. Also, don’t forget wipes, snacks, beverages, and a change of clothes if needed.
4. Play Music
If your loved one has dementia, there are going to be days when he or she becomes agitated and frustrated. Remember music soothes the soul. Compile a playlist of your loved one’s favorite tunes for days when nothing else seems to have a calming effect. Stay composed and turn your parent’s attention to the music.
5. Simplify Remotes
The many buttons and options on the remotes that operate various electronic devices commonly become confusing and frustrating for seniors with memory loss. Consider camouflaging unnecessary buttons with colored tape. Label the on/off button, the channel button, and the volume control button. Your loved one may then happily watch TV unassisted.
6. Evaluate Rugs in the Home
Small area rugs are one of the major causes of slips, trips, and falls. If your loved one is insistent that the rugs remain in place, use double-sided tape to ensure they don’t pose a risk. Evaluate common pathways between rooms to make sure they remain clear of obstructions.
If you’re concerned about your loved one’s safety, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Richmond, VA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
7. Enhance Visibility
For seniors with impaired vision, motion-detecting nightlights can help them navigate their homes. Place lights on the paths to the bathroom and kitchen. To make stairways more visible at night, place a strip of glow-in-the-dark tape at the front of each step.
Caring for an aging adult can be an overwhelming task. In Richmond, elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.