New to Family Caregiving? Here Are 7 Things To Do

People become family caregivers in ways both planned and unplanned. Whether one agrees to do it in advance or comes to this role by way of a family emergency, it can be difficult to know where to start. Medication management, bill paying, transportation—there is a lot to consider when one begins to care for a loved one. Here are some tasks to help a family caregiver get started.

New to Family Caregiving?

Here Are 7 Things To Do

Caregiving can be a rewarding and challenging experience. Here are seven tasks that will help you get started.

1. Hold a family meeting. A successful family meeting will give each participant a chance to be heard.
2. Talk about finances and health care wishes. You will need to know if there is a power of attorney, how bills will be paid, and your loved one’s wishes for health and end-of-life care.
3. Set realistic expectations. It’s best if each party communicates about their goals.
4. Learn about your loved one’s condition. Different medical conditions require different skill sets. Having more information will help you prepare.
5. Keep track. Document what tasks are completed by whom and when so you can communicate effectively with medical providers and other family members.
6. Find resources in the community. Communities often have resources for transportation, meal delivery, or more depending on your loved one’s medical condition or status as a veteran.
7. Talk to people who understand. Caregiving can be emotionally taxing. Identify supportive people who will listen and understand the challenges.

Right at Home caregivers provide assistance with personal care, transportation, housekeeping, companionship and more. Contact Right at Home* today and ask for a FREE in-home consultation.

*In-home care services may vary by location.