One day it happens, your husband has a stroke and all of the sudden your life changes. Most people are not prepared for these occurrences. As adults reach their senior years, life can change suddenly so it is important to be organized and prepared for the possibility of needing to provide elder care at home in the blink of an eye.
There are millions of elderly home care providers who fell into the position when life changed as a result of a medical emergency or major accident. Many elderly home care providers have to give up their jobs because they are needed for around the clock care. Making the switch to providing home care for elderly loved ones can be a big change and without the proper resources, it can be overwhelming.
Keep a Home Care Medical File
One of the first necessities for any elderly home care provider caring for a loved one is a home medical file. Since the first caregiver tends to be an elderly spouse, there is a chance that spouse could have an emergency medical situation, too. The home medical file should be kept in a logical and convenient place. The file should be updated with a receipt or notes after every appointment or other situation. The home medical file should contain a complete medical history with a full list of physicians, allergies, diagnoses, prescription and over-the-counter medications. The file should also include all insurance information like copies of insurance cards or even a list of insurance companies, numbers, addresses, and phone numbers. Lastly, the file should include legal documents like Power of Attorney forms, living wills, and the family lawyer’s contact information.
Build Knowledge about the Medical Condition
Newly appointment elder care providers should learn as much as they can as quickly as possible. Talking with doctors and health care providers is a challenge task for many elder care providers. Elder care providers are often frustrated because they do not always know the correct terms to use or the questions to ask. Before visiting the doctor, it is a good idea for those providing home care for elderly loved ones to do research to learn about the diagnosis and the questions to ask. Going to an appointment with questions already prepared makes it less frustrating to get the information you need to provide proper care. It can also be helpful to develop a relationship with your primary care doctors nurse so you can get even more information when you need it. Many home care providers will keep a notebook and bring it to every doctor’s appointment to keep everything in one place. That notebook can easily be stored in the home medical folder.
By staying organized and learning about your loved one’s condition, you will be able to provide better and more efficient care.
For all of your elder care needs in Southern NJ and the surrounding areas call and talk to us at Home to Stay Healthcare Solutions (856) 321-1500.
