Tips for Caregivers

Be prepared!

• Have emergency supplies on hand. These should include a flashlight with extra batteries, bottled water, extra medications, and a battery-operated radio.
• Know where all the emergency numbers are in the home. Keep the numbers on a wall or cabinet near the phone.
• Have a monitor in the room where your loved one is resting and a monitor in another room where you might be (kitchen, laundry, or other).
• Keep a calendar near the phone for doctor and other appointments.
• Have the gas tank at least half full.
• Call 911 first in an emergency (unless the individual is receiving hospice care). You can involve others later, such as family members or a home care provider who is involved in delivering care.

Don't be afraid to seek help.

• See what services may be provided by your church, synagogue or what you may be qualified for through your Area Agency on Aging.
• Look to other individuals in the family who may be willing to help, even if only on a limited basis. This can mean running an errand, visiting, or escorting to a church service.
• Hiring an agency privately, even for small amounts of time, or certain tasks, can be of great help, and can help preserve the dignity of the individual receiving care.

Stay on top of medications

• When medication changes, throw out the former medication.
• Take the time to write down all the medications your loved one is taking, including over-the-counter medications. Review with the family doctor. Keep the list handy in case of emergency.
• Keep medication in a locked cabinet or drawer if caring for someone who is often confused.