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Caregiver's Handbook 4

C. Introduction

1. You, the caregiver, are very important. Few people are prepared for the responsibilities and tasks involved in caring for the aged. To help make the task easier, it is important to have a game plan in life which helps determine where we are headed and how we are going to get there. This guide will help to serve as a road map which gives optional paths for caregivers. It is also an emphatic reminder that those who care for other people can do a better job of caregiving if time and attention also are given to their own personal needs. It can not be stated strongly enough; the caregiver is a very important part of the caregiving equation. The success of this equation and the continuance of its success is actually dependent on how well the caregiver cares for him/herself. In other words, if the caregiver becomes ill, who will care for the care-receiver? Before you get to that place, please read this handbook. This handbook explores a number of different topics which can make the role of caregiver easier, and at the same time, help the person receiving the care. Throughout this handbook, *caregiving* refers to the person giving care, and*care-receiver* the elderly person receiving the care. Below are two checklists, one focusing on the care- receiver and the other on the caregiver. They are included as general guidelines to help insure an optimal level of health, safety and comfort for both your care-receiver and yourself, the caregiver.

2. Table 1

Check list for care-receiver

__ All legal and financial matters are in order and available

__ Physical and dental appointments are kept annually or more often if needed __ The home environment is clean, safe and pleasant

__ Nutritional needs, exercise, sleep and social activities are maximized to the degree possible

__ Personal hygiene and grooming are done daily

__ Respite services have been utilized monthly/weekly _

__ Level of care is reviewed monthly to ensure care-receiver is able to remain in the home

Check list for the caregiver

__ I am getting out/exercising at least once a week

__ I am getting at least seven to nine restful hours of sleep a night

__ I talk with or visit up to three friends or relatives weekly

__ I keep annual medical and dental appointments

__ I am taking only the medications as prescribed to keep up my health

__ My legal and financial papers, including wills, are in order and available

__ I have checked a new resource regarding caregiving each week

__ I have read and am aware of the Caregiver's Bill of Rights

__ I am eating three balanced meals a day.

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To Caregiver's Handbook Page 5

To Caregiver's Handbook Table of Contents

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