How to be helpful
What can I do to help my friend who is struggling alone as a caregiver for her husband?
Even if you are busy with your own job and family, you can fit in some helpful things. 1. How about texting when you go shopping and offer to pick up a few things she may need. 2. Offer to fill up her car with gas. 3. Prepare a home cooked meal and drop it off. 4. Pick up/drop off dry cleaning. 5. Head to the garden centre and get a few hanging baskets to brighten her day. 6. Plan a short outing or drive for your caregiver friend to give her a break. 7. Encourage her to ask for help from friends, family and government resources.
Texting on the job
Our caregiver is always texting on her phone while she is working. Can I ask her to stop?
Let’s face it. A lot of us are addicted to our phones and spend working time texting and checking messages. However, time spent on personal devices can interfere both with productivity, client safety and quality of care. As with any employer, you have the right to discuss your preferences, review and enforce guidelines. Time off to handle personal texts during lunch time, or a break is preferred, and “phone down” suggestions during the work day are reasonable.
Concerning
“My dad frequently fails to answer his phone which leaves me both frustrated and worried. How can I address this with him?
It can be disheartening when a loved one consistently fails to answer their phone. To address this issue, open communication is key. Have an honest conversation with your dad, expressing how his unavailability affects you. Seek to understand his perspective and any underlying reasons for the missed calls. Explore alternative communication methods that might work better for both of you, such as texting or scheduling regular check-ins. Additionally, setting boundaries and expectations can help manage your emotions. Remember, maintaining open lines of communication and empathy is crucial in resolving this issue.
Quality care
How can I ensure that our caregivers understands the importance of safety and quality care?
Setting your caregiver up for success is a key part of the process. Quality care means doing the right things at the right time in the right way to achieve the best possible results. This takes qualifications, training and specific instructions regarding your loved ones preferences and daily routines. Patient safety involves keeping patients safe from both accidental or preventable harm. Tips and tools you can employ include using monitoring technology, training and education. Verifying routines and procedures following hygiene protocols and promoting honest and accurate communication and reporting.
