Caregiving

Kids with physical, cognitive, emotional, or social limitations are much more at risk for injury, which means they’re more likely to end up in the emergency department than other kids. They may also be in more danger when they get to the ED.... Full Answer

Many people are able to use the time during advanced cancer and hospice care to grow closer. Patients and caregivers may celebrate the life they have shared by talking, laughing, telling stories and being open about their feelings--perhaps as... Full Answer

Communication is the key to making sure that a loved one's wishes are respected at the end of life. This, ideally, should be discussed early on in life, and again and again throughout life. Sometimes talking about someone else's death helps us talk... Full Answer

Encourage your family and friends to be patient with the person you care about as he or she adjusts to his or her new reality. When someone faces the loss of abilities, it takes time to process the feelings and the fears. Most people do not like... Full Answer

Once you have made the decision that you will take on the duties of a caregiver, one of the first things you need to become aware of is your loved one's medical conditions. Write down the conditions you know about and do some research about those... Full Answer

Medication administration can often become a point of contention with aging parents or others. One of the reasons may be that they maybe are difficult to swallow. Offer medications with pudding, applesauce or a nutritional supplement such as... Full Answer

A variety of technologies are now available that can help caregivers keep track of their loved ones' safety and well-being when the caregivers aren't around.Most people are familiar with the emergency response system known as Lifeline, thanks to its... Full Answer

To improve caregiver communication for someone with memory problems, you can: Keep a daily diary and communication notebook. When several family members are caring for a loved one, at home or in a facility, keep a binder or notebook to make... Full Answer

Often, as bathing becomes more difficult, your aging parent may try to avoid it altogether. If your elderly loved one suffers from Alzheimer's disease or dementia, he or she may also refuse to bathe. This, of course, is not a good option. Staying... Full Answer

If your relative or friend is older or her condition is progressive and is expected to get worse over time, you need to bring up some difficult questions. You may want to include a healthcare professional, other family members or a clergy member in the... Full Answer