Caregiving: It ain’t for Sissies

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Caregiver Tips
Patient Meals
I found serving the on small trays (with sides) keep the bed or their area cleaner. I use metal trays (like used in toaster oven) Easy to wash and store.
Most like finger foods. Allows then to feel independent 💜 Sandwiches cut in 1/4 Where I used to overstuff a sandwich 🥪 Now you may wish to under stuff. I found placing condiments like lettuce or pickles on the side works better (neater)
They like to facilitate their own drinks. I used a thermo mug with lid and straw for water (always available to him) and straw in sodas or juice bottles. If they are less than co-ordinated; do not fill to top. At night place the water a bit away from the bed so they don’t accidentally knock it over. Hard to be cheerful mopping up water middle of the night. Also a fall risk for you 😢
When they cannot feed themselves dishes/soups. I pretended to make it a meal for both of us…while I fed him. I would have a bite/drink of something as he ate. It allows them to feel less needy
Note sure how much it is to buy a 2nd tray table but I could have used 2. So many things were on the one, his water, creams, peppermint oil that he used to help him breathe at nite (had a deviated septum), tissues, pills…
That I did not use it as much as I may have had I had all that on another table.
Side note; never enough room for all the reports, things like lotions and potions (more on that later), pill splitter, lots of napkins/paper towels, clippers and file….
Guess that is a starter….will add as I think of it
Reminder to get their bed up far enough for their ease
Oh and I used a kitchen towel as a bib. I would shake off crumbs, and fold it and hang it on bed until it needed to be washed.
Feel free to add your tips under comments 💜🧚

7 phone numbers every caregiver should have saved in their phone. Most families don't have them. 💛

1. Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116
2. Alzheimer's 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
3. Medicare: 1-800-633-4227
4. VA Caregiver Support: 1-855-260-3274
5. NAMI: 1-800-950-6264
6. Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
7. NCOA: 571-527-3900 / BenefitsCheckUp.org

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