Caring for an ill loved one is, at the very least, challenging; physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s saddening to see a loved one in poor health. It’s a responsibility and you never know what to expect, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any tools and information out there to make the task easier on both you and the family member.
There is always a better way to do something. Here are some suggestions that will help you care for a sick person you know.
Learn About the Illness
The more information you know about what the person is suffering from, the more you might be able to help. You are not the doctor and you are not the one to make major decisions, but knowing about an illness or disease will help you better understand the actions and reactions of the sick person.
Keep All Contact Numbers Handy
It happens often that family members all share in taking responsibility for caring for a sick relative. They might take turns being at someone’s home if the sick person in question is not living under your roof. Make a list of all the possible people that might need to be contacted, like a doctor, hospital, ambulance, or neighbors. These numbers should be handy at all times, regardless of who is taking care of the person.
Emergency Devices
There is no way for a person to be attentive to the needs of someone 24/7. At the end of the day, the caretaker also has a life to live and their own needs to tend to. This is when you should take full advantage of available technology in the form of emergency help button systems that could be life-saving tools. These devices allow a patient to contact high-quality call centers in the case of an emergency. This way you know your loved one has the means to contact emergency specialists with just the press of a button at times you’re not available.
Comfort and Cleanliness
It’s vitally important that a sick person is made comfortable. This means making sure the patient is bathed and groomed, their surroundings are clean and tidy, and they are receiving the proper intake of food and drink. If the person is very ill or bed-ridden, you need to change their sleeping or resting position on the bed a few times a day to prevent bedsores. It’s not all doom and gloom being a caregiver as there are benefits. Helping someone is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
Lookout for Changes
It’s best if you keep a log of vital signs, such as temperature and pulse. Bowel movements can also be written down. If you notice changes or see signs the person is getting worse, contact a doctor or hospital. The log you have kept will help them treat the patient.
Caretaking is never an easy job. It can take a toll on the caregiver if they are not prepared. This is not the time to refuse any help you can get, whether it’s a helpful neighbor making you a meal, or you choosing to use advanced tech to achieve peace of mind and not be overwhelmed. At the same time, helping someone you love can be a gift for both of you.
