How to Get More Organized as a Family Caregiver

Elderly Care Salisbury NC

Being a family caregiver means that you’re juggling a lot, both in your life and in your elderly loved one’s life. It’s important to get a handle on that disorganization so that it doesn’t become insurmountable.

Make Some Checklists for Yourself and Others 

One really easy way to make sure that you and other people know what your loved one needs, and when she needs it, is to make a series of checklists. This really consists of just writing down the steps that need to be taken, in what order they need to occur, and when those checklists are relevant. You might have checklists for home safety, for meal preparation, for bathing and personal care, and a whole host of other occasions. Having thorough checklists helps other family members and even elder care providers help your loved one and you.

Make Copies of Important Documents 

You likely have quite a few important documents that you manage for your elderly loved one. Just in case, make some backup copies of those documents and store them in a safe location. Then, if you ever do need an additional copy, you can always go to your backup file. If you remove a document, it’s a good idea to make a fresh copy to replace it.

Keep Your Elderly Loved One Involved

It’s not uncommon for family caregivers to accidentally take their loved one out of the decision-making process. Often this is not even something that family caregivers are conscious of while it’s happening. Remember to ask your loved one for her input on both big decisions and smaller ones. Even if your loved one doesn’t seem interested, remember that it’s her life and she likely does care quite a lot.

Use a Calendar or a Planner 

Often people who feel disorganized don’t use any sort of calendar or planner. You should use whatever method is comfortable for you, whether that’s an electronic calendar that you only access via your smartphone or a paper planner that you carry everywhere with you. As you become accustomed to notating every important event or task, you’ll find that you’re freeing up your brain to do really important things, such as help your loved one to live a fuller and happier life.

Becoming organized is about more than just putting things back in the right places. It can be a mindset, too.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Elderly Care Services in Salisbury NC, please contact the caring staff at Tender Hearted Home Care today. (704) 612-4132.