ELDER CARE A-Z

By Dr. Marion Somers –

With so many things to think about, it can be difficult to stay sane and organized throughout the caregiving process. I know that caregiving can be an overwhelming challenge to undertake. Just remember that you’re not alone—in fact, there are millions of others in your same position. I came up with this list of quick thoughts and reminders that all caregivers can use. Feel free to make a copy of this list and put it on your refrigerator at home, or on your desk at work. It could become a shorthand way to keep you organized, and I hope that it also lifts your spirits.

A-Address the issue/issues at hand.
B-Be bold and accept the reality of the situation.
C-Categorize everything that must be dealt with.
D-Delegate where possible.
E-Ethical decisions must be made at all times.
F-Financial matters should be in order.
G-Get going and don’t procrastinate.
H-Help is available if you search and ask.
I- Independence must be considered at all times for your elder.
J-Juxtapose your thoughts with your elder’s and think about what they need.
K-Keep a journal of contacts including names, dates, times, topics, outcomes, next steps.
L-Legal issues should be handled in a specific and comprehensive manner.
M-Make time for your own family, job, and social life.
N-(K)Now the desired outcomes, goals, and projected solutions to the challenges.
O-Organize your thoughts and plan ways to address each challenge.
P-Prioritize your own issues and time constraints.
Q-Quality of life, for both you and your elder, must be addressed.
R-Recreation and time away is necessary and healthy for your own peace of mind.
S -earch for all resources that might help your caregiving journey.
T-Trust the elder you’re caring for, and trust your basic caregiving instincts.
U-Understand that being a caregiver requires patience.
V-Visit your elder in person, or call them on the phone, or send cards, letters, flowers and gifts.-
W-Write out all information and keep it current.
X-X-haustion may set in so find ways to relieve stress.
Y-You’re doing a great job – congratulate yourself.
Z-Zone out and reward yourself for a job well done.

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A recognized visionary and thought leader in her field, Dr. Marion (Marion Somers, PhD) has over 40 years of experience as a geriatric care manager, caregiver, author, speaker, and teacher of all things elder care. Next week, Dr. Marion kicks off a bus tour, crisscrossing the country to talk with seniors and caregivers. Her advice: it’s never too soon to start planning for long-term care needs and costs. As part of the campaign, Dr. Marion and 3in4 Need More are launching a nationwide “Get Your Life Back” contest to find those struggling to care for their aging loved ones. The winner will receive an ultimate caregiver makeover valued at $50,000 – including a week’s worth of pampering and relaxation, an in-home safety assessment and overhaul, one-on-one coaching, and high-tech solutions to support a range of caregiving needs. To enter, visit http://www.3in4needmore.com/.

For more on Dr. Marion, visit her website, http://www.drmarion.com/.  If you enter your “biggest caregiving challenge” in the form on the site, you will receive a free download of her book, Elder Care Made Easier.

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