Marsha C. Care Companion in Miami, FL 33173

Assess medical needs

Checking on your senior loved one’s health is an important caregiver responsibility. You may need to help keep track of medical appointments, manage medications and chronic conditions, or assess pain levels. It’s a good idea to discuss your loved one’s health with their doctor and other health professionals regularly.

2. Prepare a care plan

Preparing a care plan that addresses your senior loved one’s care needs and goals can be helpful when you begin your caregiving journey. A plan can help you determine how many hours of care a day your loved one will require and whether you need additional help to ensure his or her health and safety.

3. Assist with basic needs

Memory and mobility issues can make even basic needs such as eating, bathing, grooming, and toileting — commonly referred to as “activities of daily living,” or ADLs — difficult. Check-in often and pay attention to specific signs and changes to determine if your loved one needs extra help.

4. Provide companionship

One of the most essential but sometimes overlooked parts of caregiving is companionship. Feelings of loneliness in older adults can lead to serious health consequences including depression. When you care for an aging loved one, you are creating opportunities to strengthen your bond and connection.

5. Help with housekeeping

As your loved one ages, maintaining a home can become increasingly difficult. Older adults may need help with dishes, taking out the garbage, or vacuuming. If your loved one lives in a house, yard work, snow shoveling, and daily maintenance may be too much for them to handle even with your help. Consider whether your loved one would benefit from the convenience and support of a senior living community.

6. Monitor medications

Older adults often take several prescription medications to treat chronic conditions. Your loved one may need help keeping track of their medication list, understanding drug interactions, and taking prescribed dosages at the right time. You can help lower your loved one’s risk of overmedicating by creating reminder systems and monitoring his or her medications.

7. Assess your care plan regularly