Simple adjustments
There are some very simple items or changes you can make in a home that will help a loved one enjoy their independence;
Don’t leave changes too late - if someone comes in with a fresh pair of eyes and can see a simple tweak to make life easier…. please consider their suggestion.
Don’t live with problems - find someone to speak to and look for solutions together. A problem shared is a problem halved.
Write things down - Have a diary and keep notes especially of changes in the cared for person’s behaviour. One common situation we encounter is a Urinary Track Infection. Easy to diagnose and treat, not so obvious if you aren’t recording the symptoms over a few days.
Stress - An unpaid carer in particular won’t be aware of the build up of stress and how it manifests itself in them. Forgetting to take their own medication, not attending their own doctors/hospital appointments, worried sick that they are doing things wrong. Suggest respite care to allow them to get out of the home and follow a hobby or activity that helps them release stress. Alternatively if the cared for person can go out for a drive and leave the unpaid carer at home, that would be ideal. Just having some-one come in for a chat is a tonic. Any activity has to be with the agreement of the carer.
Peer groups - It is amazing how many households I go into and they are reinventing the wheel! Try to find someone who has been here before. Usually in your group of friends someone has had to look after their loved one. They may have some tips and suggestions, especially of sources of help. They may be grateful that their experience is helping others and their struggle was not in vain. Please don’t suffer in silence!
Write a Care Plan for your loved one. Please see my other blog for the content. Writing things down is a really good way of seeing things clearly. This will also be helpful if you have to go to an appointment and have to leave someone else in charge. If someone offers to help, accept it. Then if there is an emergency, at least you have the confidence that all will be well in your absence.
Tiny changes can make a big difference - some people tuck their vest and shirt/top into their underwear. If they have a toileting incident, they have to completely undress. Make that tiny change.
Many thanks