Care recipient (cr) is at risk for falling or has fallen in the past

Try: See physician to diagnose potential physical problems and to provide solutions remove throw rugs as these become bunched and cause trips or can be slip hazards install grab bars in bathrooms and hallways consider an emergency home response system ehrs and encourage the cr to wear the device which will signal for help with […]

Care recipient (cr) has difficulty reaching or bending

Try: These devices can be purchased at any drug store or medical supply store; look for a heavy duty one but that will require minimal effort on the cr cr’s part keep the reacher in problem areas e g near a washing machine to pick up dropped clothes near a chair where the cr frequently […]

Ongoing pain can affect mood concentration and enjoyment of life

Try: If the exact location of pain is hard to find touch or make gentle movements around the area to pinpoint it take prescription pain medicine only as directed even over-the-counter medication should be taken only after checking its interaction with medical conditions and other medications alternate hot and cold packs for joint or muscle […]

Care recipient (cr) has accumulated a significant amount of stuff and living quarters are extremely cluttered this adversely impacts cr’s ability to function and quality of life

Try: #discuss the problem with the cr and come to an agreement that the problem exists this must be done before you can move on to the next step #offer to help the cr resolve the problem set realistic written goals that the cr is willing to achieve #put a moratorium on accumulating additional stuff […]