Care Giving By Dr. Ghazala Shaikh

TIPS FOR CAREGIVING

ByDr. Ghazala Shaikh

Caregiving

Important concept in societies with increased aging population…

Deals with impairment related to old age, disability, disease and mental disorder.

Challenging JobTake care of daily activities

Managing medications

Talking to the doctors and nurses

Helping to bathe or dress

Taking care of household jobs, meals or bills

Remember the person Inside

Re-think personal boundaries

Flexibility and honesty is the key..

Toileting and bodily functions ..essential subject matter

Be candid , empathetic and honest.

Have patience

Patience- real virtue in care giving

So Remove yourself from that situation Take deep breath Address the situation when you are calm

Stress and pent up frustation take a big toll on your mental health.

Trust

Arm yourself with knowledge

Knowledge is Power

Guide you and instill confidence

Demonstrate that you are competent to take decision about their care

Do it from your Heart

If its yours, COMMIT TO IT

Don’t view it as OBLIGATION.

Selfless act, something you want to do, not have to…

Don’t disregard their opinion

Consider their point of view

Respond to them as the individual human being as they were before they become“the patient”

Look for non verbal cues

Help you to understand their needs

Be responsive with limits..( Do not ignore their needs)

Let them know you heard them

Be Present Spend some time with them

Try to enjoy their company

Be Non judgmental Getting old is not easy to accept…

Have Tolerance and be practice non judgment

Communicate with touch A hug Pat on the arm Holding hand

Build teamwork Have teamwork attitude

Includes the healthcare professionals

Trust yourself…Make decision based on the situation and perform your role with confidence.

Have the courage to do the best you canAnd SEEK HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT

Avoid caregiver stress