The start of the year is a good time to evaluate challenges and opportunities in the caregiving space. It is also a time to develop or reevaluate your caregiving plan for a loved one. Every year brings new situations and circumstances. These can include new health findings, disease progression, falls, family matters, medication changes, changes in the healthcare team, insurance changes, new financial issues, housing changes, mental health concerns, and obstacles in securing resources to manage the required care. I thought it would be helpful to refresh some and enlighten others on the essential areas that must be at the forefront when caring for your loved one.
First, your loved one’s health is vital. A clear understanding of their health condition is critical to providing care. If your loved one experiences any signs or symptoms, you will know when emergent or urgent intervention is needed.
Second, family support is an essential piece of the caregiving journey. You cannot do it alone. Find your village and discuss the gifts and talents they can provide to your loved one. The key is to encourage participation in supporting elders who require care. Realize also that every little bit helps. Accept all support. Every change you get to exhale, take it. It’s called self-care.
Third, believe me, keeping a calendar is so beneficial. As a caregiver, managing doctor appointments, medication refills, and nutrition schedules all matter. Yes, some days don’t go as planned, but with a calendar and schedule, it’s easier to regroup.
Fourth, keep important legal and financial documents within reach. Know where they are. It is also helpful to have another family member who knows where to find these documents. Keep the original documents. We strongly recommend that you make copies of all documents and keep them in a safe, secure place. As a family caregiver, managing a loved one’s financial and legal affairs can feel hard. Organizing essential documents helps ensure your loved one’s wishes are honored, their finances are protected, and you can make decisions efficiently during challenging times.
Fifth, ensure you have a legal document that says you are the caregiver and provider of care for your loved one. Examples of necessary documents for your loved one include their birth certificate, marriage/divorce papers, Social Security cards, military discharge(DD214), any life insurance, wills, power of attorney (POA), driver’s license, retirement, and bank documents. If your loved one was a small business owner or owns numerous properties, you need to be aware. Documents are essential when managing affairs and safeguarding assets. If you feel you need advice from an eldercare attorney, please seek guidance.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, caregiving is a role that needs a framework specific to your loved one’s needs. Let’s start the year refreshed and renewed. If you can include your loved one in any discussion about their well-being, please do so. Remember, they are the reason for your loving care. Visit my website if you have any consulting needs. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She’s excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous works, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflect her experiences and insights gained during her heartfelt caregiving journey.