Having worked with many family caregivers who want to help their loved ones stay independent and in their home as long as possible, I noticed they share the commonality of significant stress. Family caregivers are trying to respect the wishes of their loved ones while keeping them safe and physically and mentally healthy as possible. Time is limited because the family caregivers are working, managing their households, and now their parents’ households. They feel alone as they are concerned about their aging loved one. Often they lose hope as their lives are put on hold while mom and dad age. Does this sound familiar? If so, know that there is hope. You don’t have to do this alone. Build a Care Team by surrounding you and your loved one with professionals and advocates.
Depending on your loved one’s physical and emotional state, your Care Team will consist of several players. For instance, if you are trying to keep your parents at home and independent as long as possible, you may lead and build a care team consisting of doctors, home health, homecare, and family and friends. Keep in mind you may add different professionals. Your team players are based upon your loved one’s conditions, needs, and your situation.
As you build your team, consider several things including the Care Team member:
Provides expertise in the specified area.
Instills dignity and treats with your loved one with respect.
Serves as your loved one’s advocate.
Gives you and your loved one peace of mind
Maintains and/or enhances your loved one’s quality of life.
Each member of your team provides a specific role that will help you and your loved one. Briefly, let’s explore why doctors, home health, homecare, and family and friends may be key players as you lead your Care Team. We will explore each of these roles in more detail over the next several blogs.
Doctors – When you share details of concern with a doctor, even if you think it is irrelevant, you help the doctor treat your loved one. For instance, mom has stopped going to church and playing bridge with her friends. She says she isn’t hungry and she refuses to eat. The doctor may ask more questions, diagnose depression, and prescribe an antidepressant. After several weeks of treatment, you may notice a happier mom. Communicate information thoroughly.
Home Health Agency – For many reasons, a doctor may prescribe home health therapy. For instance, an aging parent is weak; going home after a hospital stay; or experiencing frequent falls. When home health is prescribed, an agency nurse will do an assessment and may make scheduled visits to check vital signs. Physical, occupational, or other types of therapy may be scheduled several times per week. Instruction and exercises will be given by the therapist. It is very important that the patient follows instruction and performs exercises daily, even on the days the therapist does not visit. Often, an agency home health aide will be scheduled to assist in bathing, washing hair and dressing. The home health agency team should work towards building as much independence as possible for your loved one. If qualified and prescribed, home health may be covered by insurance and Medicare.
Homecare – Hiring a homecare agency or caregiver can be a saving grace. There are two types of homecare: personal and companion. Personal care is hands-on care including bathing, dressing, and grooming. Transferring, such as helping someone out of the car, chair, or bed is also personal care. Typically, a caregiver has had specific training in these areas. Companion care is running errands, household chores, or spending time you’re your aging loved one. In most states, agencies must be licensed to provide caregiving. You may also hire a private caregiver. Quality caregiving will help you keep your aging parent safe and save you time. Caregiving is private pay. Some long term care insurance policies cover this expense; whereas, Medicare and medical insurance do not cover this type of expense.
Family and Friends – Often, people will let you know they are happy to help if you need anything. A typical response is to say thanks, and never take them up on the offer. If someone is serious about the offer, make a list of different tasks that can be delegated. For instance, ask your friend to pick up your child after school while you take mom to the doctor. The truth is, you would probably do the same for that friend if the situation was reversed. A friend or family member can also provide respite care or give you a break. A visit from a family friend may be welcomed treat for your loved one. Utilize these opportunities.
Always keep in mind you are not alone in this situation and there is hope. Hire a caregiver or ask a friend to help so you can make some time for yourself. You have to remember to take care of yourself so you can be there for you loved one and your family. In Care Journey’s next blog, we will explore helpful hints when working with your Care Team doctor. Email us if you have more ideas: Staci@CAREjourney.com.
Your CAREjourney guide,
Staci Witten
www.CAREjourney.com
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