Caregiver Checklist

Caregiver

• Decide which of the family members will help the caregiver.
• Decide how much help they will be able to give.
• Establish a good relationship with the patient's medical doctor.
• Meet with a lawyer to get legal advice on decisions that need to be made about health care and finances.
• Learn all you possibly can about the illness so you can deal with it in the best possible way.
• Try to teach family and relatives about the illness so they will understand what is happening to the patient.

Your Patient

• Reassure and comfort the patient, repeatedly, with words or hugs.
• Give the patient time alone if he or she needs it.
• Keep your sense of humor.
• Read the patient's body language.
• Stay with the patient during an activity.
• Never assume the patient does not understand what is being said or done.
• Keep a watchful eye and step in gracefully when the patient needs assistance.
• Make a safe sleeping area.
• Be sure tea or coffee is not too hot.
• Include exercise in the patient's daily routine.
• Make sure anything you leave lying about is harmless.
• Do not attempt full care without assistance.
• Allow children and pets to play with the patient.
• Take the patient outdoors several times a day.
• Give the patient pleasure with music.
• Be alert for signs of developing physical problems.
• Bathe the patient daily.
• Always have assistance when trying to lift the patient.