Safety at home
One of the most important aspects of caregiving is ensuring the home environment is safe.
Depending on the illness, the patient may be physically weak or more prone to falls. In some cases, the patient may be experiencing a mental decline that results in everyday items becoming dangerous.
Preventing injury:
- Keep floors clear of clutter. Remove rugs, magazine racks, and floor lamps.
- Keep hallways well lit, especially at night.
- Put grab bars near the toilet and shower/tub.
- Put non-skid mats on floors.
- Put childproof locks on cabinets that contain dangerous items, such as medicines, alcohol, guns, toxic cleaning items, sharp tools or utensils, matches and lighters.
- If/when needed: Keep prescription drugs out of the patient’s reach and ensure a caregiver is responsible for dosage and timing of these medications to prevent a medication error.
- For doors to the outside of the house, put the locks in places where the person cannot see or reach them easily. This will help ensure that the person does not wander out of the house and get lost.
- Be prepared for emergencies. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers and addresses in a convenient area.
- Remove car keys and lock garage doors so that the person does not try to get in the car and drive.
- Have the person wear a bracelet that tracks locations and identifies the person as having memory problems. This should be worn at all times for safety.
Physical aspects of caregiving
The physical needs of your patient are likely just as important as their other needs. As their illness progresses, they may need more help with things such as transportation, mobility assistance and hygiene. You may want to talk with their doctor or home health aide for specific ways you can offer this help without injuring the patient or yourself.
Things that may come up as an illness progresses:
- Lifting and moving the patient: What are proper techniques?
- Bedpans/incontinence: What are procedures for using and cleaning?
- Pressure ulcers: How can bedsores be prevented?
- Bathing/skin care/oral hygiene: Are there certain products that are better?
Guide to safe lifting techniques for caregivers
Helpful services to consider
At some point in your caregiving journey, you’ll likely need help from others. This may mean help from professional health caregivers and help for other needs, such as household management. Again, your palliative care team can help connect you to local resources.
Types of care you may need over time:
Find palliative care
Learn about palliative care services in your area.