Strategies for Successful Caregiving While You’re Still Working
There is a wonderful quote by a former First Lady of the United States, Rosalynn Carter which says:
“There are only four kinds of people in the world, those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.”
This is so true yet many of us never think about these roles and some are unaware that they are functioning in the role of caregiver despite doing many tasks daily to assist those in need. And we don’t dare think of the possibility of one day requiring the assistance from a caregiver ourselves.
But the reality of it is that the transitioning role of a caregiver touches all of our lives. And the roles can creep in slowly but oftentimes they invade our lives in such a disruptive manner that we are often left with our heads spinning, wondering how to move forward.
In the case with adult children who are watching their parents age and become more frail and with health concerns, it becomes apparent that increasing amounts of help is needed in order for them to perform daily personal care, mobility and household chores.
Like myself, many adult children see THE WRITING ON THE WALL and realize that they are likely going to be that primary person responsible for caring for the aging parent(s). So how do you prepare to provide care for those who need your support when you must continue to work?
Below are tips for those individuals who have loved ones who may have a degree of weakness, but are able to do some things for themselves but need support.
Four Strategies For Successful Caregiving While You’re Still Working
Let them do their part.
Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your loved one is very important. You may need the services of OT and PT to help determine what things your loved one can still safely do. Allow your loved one to perform those tasks while you observe them to give yourself assurance of their skills. Use the time that you are still present to make observations of what they can safely do. Do not do tasks that they can safely do. Meals and Medications must also be considered.
Set Up The Environment to Allow For Success and Minimize Fall Risks.
Look at how and when things are being performed. Making simple changes to the home environment can significantly reduce falls. Learn what safety equipment is needed and make sure it is setup properly and in good working order. Consider rearranging furniture placement, using devices like grab bars and removing throw rugs. Set limits on tasks that should not be done unsupervised due to fall risks.
Provide In-Home Assistance For Times When Help Is Needed.
The early mornings and bedtime hours are most challenging and require the most assist. If you are able, chose those time to assist them or hire someone. A brief mid-day check-in on them may be all that’s needed —Palliative Care, Home Health, Family and Friends are options to consider.
Explore Funding.
Please be aware that Medicare does not fund caregiver services but there may be other options available through VA benefits and local Aging Community resources.
https://www.caregiver.org/connecting-caregivers/services-by-state
https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/
But remember you can not do it alone. If other family members are not able to assist physically, funds contributed can be used to hire the assist or equipment needed.
Also use of call alert buttons, remote video/audio monitoring apps and medication/meal services are also available and can provide peace of mind.
Consuela Marshall, Occupational Therapist, Caregiver
Today’s blog is inspired by an actual listener’s call into call-in line. Listen to the Caregiver’s Finding A Foothold Episode 19: Diane Knew She Would Be The One.
The podcast is available on the FindingAFoothold.com website and on all major podcast streaming sites.
Call into the podcast’s call-in line to tell your caregiving challenge and receive a free response to your struggle on an upcoming podcast show. The call-in button is located on the website.
Visit the consult page of the website, find out how to schedule a free 15 minute consult to discuss in more depth your caregiving challenge and receive help developing a caregiving plan specific for your needs.
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Disclaimer: The podcast and blog are intended to provide basic information so that you can become a more informed caregiver. The information presented is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or replace consultation with any health care providers you regularly engage with. Transmission or receipt of any of this information is not intended to, and does not, create a therapist-patient relationship. This information is not provided in the course of a therapist-patient relationship and is not intended to constitute medical advice or to substitute for obtaining medical advice from a physician or therapist licensed in the state where your family may reside. We encourage everyone to consult with your physician or therapist to see if they are appropriate and safe for you.