Professional Caregiving Foundation

   A caregiver, carer or support worker is a paid or unpaid person who helps an individual with activities of daily living. Typical duties of a caregiver might include taking care of someone who has a chronic illness or disease; managing medications or talking to doctors and nurses on someone's behalf; helping to bathe or dress someone who is frail or disabled; or taking documentations related to health for someone who cannot do these things alone. Taking care for someone like your parents involves so many task. The amount and type of care you give will largely depends on your parents condition. Keep in mind that as they age, or if they have diseases that progress, you will be increasing your care role. Initially find out what things you can do to best help your parents. For example, if your parents are in good health but need a little help, you might decide to keep your full time- job and clean house for them every week or make meals every few days.

   Having an elderly loved one in the hospital can be scary and overwhelming. You will feel calmer and be in a better position to help them if you understand their condition and what their treatment options are. it's important to keep your elderly loved one involved in major decisions about their treatment as much as possible. Discuss the possible treatment options with them if their condition allows it. If not, try to follow their wishes to the best of your ability.