Caring for a senior is not so simple, especially for the families who decide to take care of their loved ones by themselves. Although it gives you confidence that your relative is well taken care of, it can have a toll on your own life. Many people can’t afford to leave their jobs to be a full-time caregiver and are forced to have a double-shift work. Managing personal time and the senior’s care can be extremely stressful and cause anxiety.
Caregivers should have all the help they can. Friends and family can always offer reliable and emotional support, but some additional tools that can provide assistance daily. If you are a caregiver, don’t try to do it all by yourself. A considerable amount of responsibilities can leave you feeling overwhelmed and not capable of performing so well on your own job and life.
- Home automation and digital monitors
Some voice technologies can help your senior at home. They will probably not be interested in downloading apps and so on, but you can configure assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google home for them. These assistants can facilitate your loved one to ask for a cab, call family members, set alarms and so on. Can be extremely helpful especially for those who suffer from movement restrictions. If the assistant is connected entirely to the home, they can even control thermostats and lighting levels, affording them an additional level of independence.
In addition, you can keep an eye on your relative with digital monitors, which allows you to check in real-time video and sound any room in the house. You can sync to your mobile and watch if everything is alright during your absence.
- Medication reminders
As you get older, chances are your number of medications will increase. If that’s the case of your loved one, having a medication reminder at home can provide assistance for the patient and yourself. Knowing you can rely on an extra reminding help can give you a huge sigh of relief. Also, it’s beneficial for seniors who still can sort most of their things alone. It will provide them with the confidence to lead their lives more independently.
- Medical alert systems
Emergencies can happen, such as falls, and you will want your loved one to get help as fast as possible. Medical alert systems can come in various formats and features, allowing the person in need to request assistance with only the press of a button. Some advanced systems can even detect the fall and call automatically first responders. This is a vital tool if your senior is leading an independent life.
Medical alert systems can be found from $19.95. Bay Alarm Medical, LifeFone and Philips Lifeline are some of the of best-reviewed products on the market.
Also, if your senior has problems with wandering around, a GPS tracker can assist in locating the person easier and faster. From mobile apps to SOS buttons, you can assure your patient will not be lost for long.
- Medical devices kits
Having a senior at home with debilitated health can be extremely stressful. It helps to ease your mind if you know everything is under control. Have at hand essential medical tools such as blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeter, thermometers, and nebulizer if your loved one suffers from asthma. This will give you peace of mind, assisting you in taking calmer decisions and eventually call a doctor if needed.
- Fall mats
Elderly people have more chances to fall, especially if they suffer from significant cognitive impairment. A fall mat can be placed on the most dangerous areas, such close to chairs and bed, softening incidents. Fall mats with sensors also alert caregivers of any fall. As additional security consider installing safety equipment like grab bars, handrails, and mobility aids to assist in preventing falls.
In conclusion, family caregivers are at risk for several health issues. Heart diseases, depression, anxiety, stress are some of the complications that might arise. You need to put your health first and get help as much as you can. From technological tools to friends and support groups, you know you can have allies that will keep you on your feet and feeling healthy and less stressed.
NOTE: Our guest blogger for this article, Annabelle, is a primary caregiver for her mother with dementia, and professional seamstress. When not working, she’s spending time with her family or putting pen to paper for her own personal pursuits. Annabelle is passionate about dementia care and accessing the best caregiving resources.
