
When the time comes, you may find that caring for your elderly loved ones in their homes or your own can be stressful. But, it’s not just a stressful situation for you; it’s also stressful for your relatives. With planning and organization, you may be able to reduce the stress that you both feel. At EvergreenChoice, we offer the following suggestions:
1. Get all medical, legal and financial information together. Keeping updated files with your loved one’s important medical information – conditions they suffer from and medications they are taking – legal and financial information together in one place. You’ll know what’s happened with your loved one medically, legally and financially and you’ll be able to tell doctors everything you know in the event of an emergency. You can grab that folder and be on your way with one less worry. In the same vein, copy bills and prescriptions and include these in the medical and financial files. It will be helpful if you run into a billing issue or need to know exactly what prescription medication your loved one is taking.
2. Manage a Record of Individuals You Talk to About Your Loved One’s Health. It helps to know exactly who you talked to and what was discussed when it comes to your elderly relative’s health. A log of contacts including the date, time, contact information and subject discussed can help to determine what’s wrong if an emergency occurs.
3. Create a Regular Schedule. For some individuals, it’s helpful to know a schedule of events and activities will happen regularly. It helps those in your care to feel comfortable with what is happening in their lives and who they’ll see. A regular schedule decreases confusion, which can be a major stressor. It may help to keep a calendar where your relative can see it and consult it regularly.