Personal Care

1. Bathing and Hygiene Assistance

• Helping with showers, sponge baths, or bed baths.

• Assisting with washing hair, applying lotion, and maintaining skin care.

• Ensuring proper oral hygiene, including brushing teeth or denture care.

2. Dressing and Grooming Support

• Helping the individual choose and put on appropriate clothing.

• Assisting with grooming tasks such as brushing hair, shaving, or nail care.

• Encouraging independence while providing necessary support.

3. Toileting and Incontinence Care

• Assisting with bathroom use and ensuring privacy and dignity.

• Changing adult briefs or managing catheter care, if needed.

• Keeping the individual clean and comfortable to prevent skin irritation.

4. Mobility and Transfer Assistance

• Helping individuals move safely from bed to chair, wheelchair, or walker.

• Providing stability and support to prevent falls.

• Encouraging light movement to promote circulation and comfort.

5. Feeding Assistance

• Helping with meal setup and ensuring food is easy to consume.

• Assisting with feeding while promoting independence when possible.

• Encouraging proper hydration and nutrition.

Why Personal Care Is Important

• Maintains hygiene and prevents infections or skin issues.

• Supports dignity and self-esteem by helping individuals feel clean and presentable.

• Reduces the risk of falls and injuries during self-care tasks.

• Improves comfort, well-being, and overall quality of life.

Meal Preparation

1. Planning Meals

   • Understanding dietary restrictions (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, soft foods).

   • Creating a balanced meal plan that includes necessary nutrients.

   • Taking personal preferences and cultural dietary habits into account.

2. Grocery Shopping

   • Purchasing fresh, healthy ingredients.

   • Reading labels for allergens, sodium content, and nutritional value.

   • Sticking to a budget while ensuring quality food selection.

3. Preparing and Cooking

   • Washing hands and maintaining kitchen cleanliness.

   • Cooking meals in a way that suits dietary needs (e.g., steaming instead of frying).

   • Making meals easier to eat if needed (e.g., cutting food into small pieces, pureeing).

4. Serving Meals

   • Ensuring meals are at the right temperature and consistency.

   • Assisting with feeding if necessary.

   • Encouraging hydration and proper nutrition intake.

5. Cleaning Up

   • Washing dishes and sanitizing food preparation areas.

   • Storing leftovers properly to prevent foodborne illnesses.

6. Monitoring Nutrition and Adjustments

   • Keeping track of food intake and any dietary changes.

   • Noting any allergies, intolerances, or health reactions to food.

   • Adjusting meals based on medical advice or personal preferences.

Light Housekeeping

1. General Tidying Up

   • Organizing common living areas to reduce clutter and improve safety.

   • Making the bed and changing linens as needed.

   • Light dusting and wiping down surfaces.

2. Kitchen Maintenance

   • Washing and putting away dishes.

   • Wiping down countertops and tables.

   • Taking out the trash and keeping the kitchen sanitary.

3. Laundry Assistance

   • Washing, drying, and folding clothes and linens.

   • Putting clean laundry away in designated areas.

   • Ensuring clothing is in good condition and appropriate for the season.

4. Bathroom Cleaning

   • Wiping down sinks, countertops, and mirrors.

   • Replacing used towels and toiletries as needed.

   • Ensuring safety by keeping floors dry and clear of obstacles.

5. Sweeping and Vacuuming

   • Keeping floors clean in frequently used areas.

   • Ensuring pathways are free from hazards that could cause falls.

   • Maintaining a dust-free environment for better air quality.

6. Trash Removal

   • Emptying wastebaskets and replacing liners.

   • Ensuring proper disposal of food waste to prevent odors.

   • Taking the trash out on scheduled collection days.

7. Why Light Housekeeping Matters

   • Promotes cleanliness and hygiene to prevent illness.

   • Reduces fall risks and improves safety.

   • Creates a comfortable and pleasant living environment.

   • Helps individuals maintain independence and dignity in their home.

Medication Reminder

1. Organizing Medications

   • Helping set up pill organizers to simplify daily doses.

   • Keeping track of medication schedules using calendars, alarms, or reminder apps.

   • Ensuring medications are stored properly (e.g., refrigerated if necessary).

2. Providing Timely Reminders

   • Gently reminding the individual when it’s time to take their medication.

   • Encouraging them to take medications with food or water if required.

   • Watching for any signs of missed doses and addressing them appropriately.

3. Monitoring for Side Effects

   • Observing for any adverse reactions or unusual symptoms.

   • Reporting concerns to family members or healthcare providers.

   • Keeping track of how medications are affecting the individual’s well-being.

4. Communicating with Healthcare Providers and Family

   • Relaying medication-related concerns to doctors or nurses.

   • Noting any changes in prescription instructions.

   • Updating family members on medication compliance and any issues.

5. Preventing Medication Errors

   • Ensuring the right medication is taken at the correct time and dosage.

   • Avoiding medication mix-ups by reading labels carefully.

   • Discouraging self-adjustment of doses without medical approval.

6. Why Medication Reminders Are Important

   • Prevents missed or double doses that can impact health.

   • Supports treatment effectiveness by maintaining consistency.

   • Reduces the risk of complications from improper medication use.

   • Provides peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones.

Errands and Transportation

1. Grocery Shopping

   • Purchasing fresh and healthy food based on dietary needs and preferences.

   • Ensuring essential pantry items are stocked.

   • Reading labels for dietary restrictions or allergens.

2. Picking Up Prescriptions

   • Going to the pharmacy to collect medications.

   • Verifying prescriptions are correct and up to date.

   • Asking pharmacists about any medication concerns, if needed.

3. Mailing and Package Handling

   • Sending out mail or picking up packages.

   • Helping the individual manage bills or letters.

4. Banking and Bill Payments

   • Assisting with bank visits or ATM withdrawals.

   • Helping with bill payments or organizing financial documents.

5. Shopping for Personal Items

   • Buying hygiene products, clothing, or other household essentials.

   • Ensuring the individual has everything needed for comfort and care.

6. Transportation and Accompaniment

   • Driving or arranging transportation to appointments, social events, or religious services.

   • Assisting with mobility during outings.

   • Providing companionship and support during errands.

7. Why Running Errands Is Important

   • Ensures the individual has necessary supplies and medications.

   • Reduces stress and physical strain from completing errands alone.

   • Provides opportunities for social interaction and maintaining independence.

   • Helps maintain a well-organized, comfortable, and healthy living environment.

Mobility Assistance

1. Assisting with Walking and Standing

• Providing support while the individual walks using a cane, walker, or gait belt.

• Encouraging slow, steady movements to maintain balance and prevent falls.

• Offering verbal cues and reassurance to boost confidence.

2. Helping with Transfers

• Assisting with getting in and out of bed, chairs, or wheelchairs.

• Using proper lifting techniques to avoid strain or injury.

• Ensuring assistive devices (e.g., grab bars, transfer boards) are used correctly.

3. Supporting Safe Positioning and Repositioning

• Helping individuals change positions in bed to prevent bedsores.

• Adjusting pillows, cushions, or chairs for comfort and proper posture.

• Encouraging light movement to promote circulation and reduce stiffness.

4. Escorting to Appointments and Outings

• Providing physical support while walking outdoors or navigating uneven surfaces.

• Assisting with getting in and out of vehicles safely.

• Ensuring the individual remains comfortable and secure during outings.

5. Encouraging Light Exercise and Movement

• Assisting with gentle stretching or doctor-recommended exercises.

• Encouraging movement to improve flexibility, strength, and independence.

• Monitoring for any discomfort or signs of fatigue.

Why Mobility Assistance Is Important

• Prevents falls and injuries that can lead to serious complications.

• Encourages independence by helping individuals move safely.

• Promotes circulation, joint health, and overall well-being.

• Provides emotional support and confidence in mobility.

Respite Care

1. Providing Temporary Supervision and Companionship

• Ensuring the individual is safe and comfortable while the primary caregiver is away.

• Engaging in meaningful conversations and activities to prevent loneliness.

• Offering emotional support and reassurance.

2. Assisting with Daily Living Activities

• Helping with tasks such as dressing, grooming, and hygiene.

• Assisting with mobility, transfers, and repositioning as needed.

• Encouraging proper hydration and nutrition through meal preparation and reminders.

3. Medication and Health Monitoring

• Providing medication reminders and ensuring the individual follows their prescribed routine.

• Observing for any signs of discomfort, illness, or changes in health.

• Communicating important health updates to the primary caregiver.

4. Performing Light Housekeeping

• Tidying up the living space for comfort and safety.

• Doing laundry, washing dishes, or taking out the trash if needed.

• Keeping pathways clear to reduce fall risks.

5. Engaging in Social and Recreational Activities

• Encouraging participation in hobbies, games, or light exercise.

• Taking the individual for short walks if they are able.

• Creating a positive and engaging environment during the caregiver’s absence.

Why Respite Care Is Important

• Gives family caregivers much-needed time to rest and recharge.

• Ensures continuity of care with a compassionate and qualified caregiver.

• Prevents caregiver burnout and reduces stress.

• Enhances the individual’s well-being through socialization and engagement.