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Aged Care Tips For Caregivers

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Caregivers often experience challenges when taking care of their loved ones. It is especially so if they do not have any training in providing aged care. Below is an excerpt with a few tips on how to provide aged care. Hopefully, you will have an easy time taking care of your loved one after reading the article. 

Take Time To Understand Your Loved One's Needs

Understanding the needs of your loved one is the first step in building a healthy caregiver-patient relationship. Start with simple things such as the foods that they enjoy the most. Inquire about their dislikes and the activities that they enjoy. For example, it could be the person loves frequent nature walks, reading the newspapers or meeting up with other seniors. Understanding these needs will help prevent conflicts and disappointments as you offer aged care. 

Encourage Independence 

An assumption made by most caregivers is that senior adults in their care require help in all aspects of their lives. However, this is not the case. For instance, you could be shocked to find out that your loved one enjoys making their breakfast or doing laundry. Remember, your loved one is not incapacitated. These activities will help lighten their moods and keep their bodies healthy. 

Consult With Your Loved One's Doctors

Consult with your loved one's doctors to understand their health needs. Some of your concerns should include: 

  • Does the individual have dietary restrictions? It will ensure that you prepare the right meals.
  • What medications does your loved one take? What are the side effects of these drugs?
  • The doctor should explain the progression of any illnesses that your loved one suffers from. It will help you identify red flags or know when the condition deteriorates.
  • How can you make your loved one comfortable at home? For example, the doctor could recommend regular physiotherapy to improve breathing, prevent muscle shrinkage and wastage. 

Determine The Need For Specialised Care

As a caregiver, you will require regular breaks to take care of yourself and handle your affairs. The truth is that most caregivers do not take breaks. They worry that no one else can handle their loved one's affairs. This attitude and perception often affect the quality of care since a fatigued caregiver could make grave mistakes. As such, you should take your loved one to residential care or assisted living facilities to enable you to take breaks. It is normal to be a bit worried about the well-being of your loved one when they are out of your sight. However, it is an opportunity for them to interact with other seniors. 

Caregivers should understand the needs of their loved ones, encourage independence, consult with their loved one's doctors and determine when their loved ones need specialised care. 

For more information, contact an aged care service.


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