Most elder people would rather receive basic bedside care from the comfort of their homes than be confined to an assisted living facility. As a result, they hire specialized caregivers and nurses to take good care of them. In addition to these individuals there are also therapists and physicians who can provide at-home care services. Elderly people, especially the sick ones, require a lot of attention. Their bodies are frail as a result of terminal illnesses and the overall wear and tear on the body. Some may not be sick at all, but they do not have youthful energy to cook, clean and care for themselves. This is where you come in. You can't just watch and do nothing. Here are some basic things you need to know about becoming a bedside caregiver:
1. The basic bedside care activities for senior people are divided into two broad categories. On one hand are the Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The second category consists of what is termed as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Activities of daily living are those that you normally go though on a day-to-day basis. Examples include bathing, dressing, brushing your teeth, going to the restroom, movement from chair to bed, and vice versa. Examples of instrumental activities of daily living are cleaning the house, preparing meals, managing medication, shopping and managing money etc.
2. Frequency of basic bedside care. This is dependent on a number of factors. Of utmost importance is how independent the elderly person remains as you take care of their needs. For instance, a senior person is able to attend to activities of daily living on his or her own. Other activities like laundry and housekeeping require your input. You need to assign someone to perform these tasks on behalf of your elderly parent. There has to be a nurse or caregiver providing round the clock surveillance to ensure that the person is safe and comfortable. Medication is crucial especially to a very ill person. Make sure the correct dosage is followed. The meals have to be prepared at the right time while adhering to nutritional requirements.
3. Couples can take turns at providing basic bedside care. Caring for a sick person requires patience and understanding. You need to have a big heart. It can be inconvenience to your daily routine. You have to be at the person's side for long hours. It is your duty to ensure they have eaten well, have had a change of clothes and that they are generally okay. It means you have to stay awake most of the night. When you are not busy, you can relieve your spouse so that at least he or she can catch up on sleep and recoup some energy.
4. By taking care of your elderly parents from the comfort of your home, you can save a lot of money that could have otherwise been spent on caregivers. In some instances, it is not possible to do this. That is the time you hire a professional through a care giving agency. The rates vary depending on whether you want someone for the day, night or throughout. You can negotiate for a reasonable rate.
While seeking for a basic bedside care agency, ensure that you are dealing with a licensed firm. Some caregivers simply place ads in newspapers, yet they are not qualified or experienced for the task. Confirm that the caregiver has gone through training and is certified to provide elderly care to the sick and other indisposed seniors. Do a background check on all agencies you have short listed before making a final decision. There have been cases of caregivers mistreating the elderly. Always know who you are hiring to care for your loved ones!
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