Archives by Subject
Some health conditions necessitate limiting physical and social events, but most people who require a caregiver can still participate in a myriad of meaningful activities. Find a few that you and your recipient (the person for whom you provide care) will enjoy.
Basics, interesting information, tips, ideas and words of encouragement for all caregivers are included in this section. The descriptive titles will help you choose the ones most applicable to your situation.
What does clutter have to do with caregiving? Well, actually, a lot. Clutter is known to contribute to stress, even depression. Clutter limits your ability to clean house efficiently. Clutter steals time and peace of mind…and when loved ones pass away their clutter can be overwhelming to family members left behind to deal with decades of stuff. It is a good idea to deal with your own clutter before the day comes – it may; it may not – when you need your own caregiver.
Talking with – not to or about – others can solve many glitches before they become full-blown problems. Knowing terms used frequently in the world of caregiving and pursuing meaningful conversations with recipients and other family members is an important aspect of successful caregiving.
Not all dementia is Alzheimer’s; but all Alzheimer’s is dementia. This is an eclectic collection of columns that address various aspects of dementia and Alzheimer’s, including questions frequently asked by caregivers.
Making the wrong decision about allowing your recipient to drive can be dangerous for him/her and others! This is such an important topic, I have listed it separately from other safety issues.
No one really likes to discuss dying, but if you are reading this, you will one day personally face this issue. Whether you are ready to make decisions about the care you will eventually receive or you have been chosen to make decisions for others, these columns will provide helpful information.
HOLIDAYS
Use these ideas to help you enjoy special days with your recipient.
Although my focus is on family in-home care – there is no place like home – I realize that there are circumstances when this is not feasible, or even recommended. These are informative columns about other options.
A five-part “eating plan” with practical suggestions for those who want food to be “blessed to their use,” these guidelines are easy to follow and are applicable to both caregiver and recipient.
OLD PEOPLE SMELL
Sure, you have noticed this…but few people talk about it.
FROM THE HEART
Some of my most well received columns were ones I wrote about personal experiences. Occasionally, caregivers just need to relax with a cup of tea (I prefer Bigelow’s Constant Comment) or coffee (black) and read for pleasure – and yes, glean ideas to help them on their journey. Enjoy.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR NON-FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Sometimes it becomes necessary to hire professional caregivers to assist the family. These guidelines are provided to help you choose the best people to help you provide care for your loved one.
Are you part of the Jeopardycrowd? I admit it; I am. These are for-fun quizzes that include pertinent caregiving information to assist you in exercising your brain while expanding your knowledge.
SAFETY
Such an important caregiving topic! You are aware of many of these safeguards, but it is always good to be reminded… and if you are new in your role as caregiver, you may have not yet considered a few of them.
SEASONS
These columns help you prepare for seasonal changes that affect your loved one.
Oh, yeah! This is the topic you MUST know about and put into practice – because if you don’t, your recipient may lose his/her caregiver.