It is rare for families to suddenly be faced with the role of caregiver for an elderly loved one. Usually, there is time to make plans. Regardless of how the need for home care is presented, there are ways to prepare the home, yourself, and your loved one for long-term in-home senior care in Waterloo.
Develop a Meal Plan
Your loved one may not be able to prepare his or her meals throughout the day. Whether your family eats together or not, you will need to plan for daily meals. Fortunately, there are a few ways to accomplish this. You can cook meals in advance and freeze them until needed or hire a Waterloo caregiver to help. There are also companies that deliver previously prepared meals at affordable prices.
Provide a Safe Environment
You should also create a safe environment in the home. Trip hazards and sharp edges can be extremely dangerous for your loved one. The simplest of actions such as securing rugs and electric cords can make a world of difference in keeping your loved one safe.
Coordinate Schedules
While the frequency of your loved one’s doctor appointments may vary, transportation to these visits and other areas may become your responsibility. Medications may need to be taken at specific set times. In order to stay on top of schedules, you must be flexible. It can also be helpful to incorporate anyone with free time such as another family member.
Remember the Emotional Aspects
There are several different things you can do to prepare a home, but the most important work often comes from within. You must maintain both patience and kindness when providing care for your loved one. This experience is likely just as hard for him or her to accept, and the burden can lead to feelings of guilt or shame.
Looking for live-in and hourly care Waterloo families trust? Home Care Assistance can help. We can customize a care plan to best meet your loved one’s needs, and our caregivers can assist with many daily tasks such as light housekeeping, preparing nutritious meals, transportation, and medication reminders. For more information, please call one of our knowledgeable Care Managers at (519) 954-2111 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.