Caregiver Tips

Criticism isn’t easy to deal with, and it can be even more hurtful when remarks come from a family member. It can be difficult to respond appropriately in the heat of the moment, but as a caregiver this is an important task. Here’s what you can do to avoid arguments and hurt feelings the next

Over 70 million inpatient and outpatient surgeries are performed every year in the U.S., and 1.4 million patients contract postoperative infections. These infections increase the likelihood of re-admittance from 7 percent to 41 percent and put additional financial burdens on patients. Registered nurses play important roles in preventing post-op infections by performing essential duties throughout

Proactive discharge planning makes it much easier to transition back to a home environment after a trip to the hospital. Whether the stay was anticipated or an emergency, take these three steps to ensure a successful return home. Be Clear on the Recovery Process The extent and requirements of the recovery process depend on the

Being a caregiver puts you at the center of a complex network of people with whom you need to maintain open communication. Use these strategies to keep calm and stay on track as you juggle these connections and responsibilities. Make Conversation a Two-Way Street Depending on the condition with which your loved one is struggling,

As you age, your brain goes through changes, some of which may contribute to dementia. However, mental exercises can counteract or slow down these changes and provide many other benefits throughout your senior years. Memory Retention Studies show participating in meaningful and enjoyable activities, such as reading, playing challenging games, learning a new language and

Ensuring a loved one receives adequate nutrition to maintain health can be a challenge. Here’s how to support your loved one’s nutrition as he or she ages: Understand the Difficulties Did you know that 30 percent of elderly people living in care facilities and 10 percent of those living at home suffer from malnutrition? This

Any in-home healthcare worker hired to help with your aging relative’s needs should be willing to build a close relationship with him or her. Knowing the details of your loved one’s life can affect care in many important ways. Comfort and Safety Seniors receiving in-home care are at different levels of independence and require varying

Being a primary caregiver is taxing, and you shouldn’t try to go it alone as your aging loved one begins to require more attention. Professional home care can provide the relief you need by providing high-quality care for elderly relatives. Research the Options If you’re ready to make the switch to professional home care, consider

The holidays should be a time of joy, but trying to prepare for celebrations while taking care of an elderly relative can make you feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world. Here’s how respite care can help. Minimizes Holiday Conflicts With the holiday season comes the stress of shopping, making cards, cooking special

Caregivers often feel guilty taking time for themselves when their loved ones need round-the-clock attention, but it’s impossible to go on indefinitely without a break. Respite care is essential and offers distinct benefits for anyone helping out an elderly loved one. Personal Health Eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep can be challenging for caregivers.