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The National Library of Health has broken down the statistics of caring for a family member over the age of sixty-five to be at least 17.7 million individuals who give more than 18 ½ billion hours of unpaid care annually. in the United States Family members needing assistance due to physical, mental, or cognitive limitations are the primary care recipients. Caregivers are typically females over forty years of age. Statistics indicate thirty to sixty-eight percent of caregivers die before the person they are caring for, emphasizing caregivers need to take care of themselves while caring for another.

Emotional and physical stress are predictable for those taking care of a loved one. Consider normal caregiving tasks and your ability to fulfill tasks before accepting responsibility. Caregiving should not be considered a duty but an opportunity to show love.

1. Scheduling and attending medical appointments: Is your schedule flexible? Is your vehicle easy to get in and out of? Are you able to understand and discuss medical findings? Is there ample time to oversee a care plan? Are you willing to monitor medication?
2. Nutritious meals: Shopping for special diets and another’s preferences may be perplexing. Do you enjoy planning meals? Cooking? Assisting another to eat?
3. Bathing, personal hygiene, and toileting: Are you comfortable and physically capable of transferring and/or supporting someone in the shower or helping them on and off the toilet? Willing to launder clothes? Dress another? Brush teeth and comb hair?
4. Companionship: A good companion needs patience, good listening skills, and resourcefulness. Deep breaths and a positive attitude are useful tools.

Bridge to Better Living cares for Seniors… after all, most of us hope to be Seniors. Transition Consultants assist clients to transition to Senior Communities offering the best and most needed care. Bridge to Better Living takes caring a step further by staying abreast of advancements in geriatric medicine, knowing each change Retirement Communities make, and championing legislation aimed at improving the lives of Seniors. Contact Bridge to Better Living. We always have and always will care about YOU.