Try: #make a plan to check on the cr more frequently that the cr calls for help if the cr calls out about twice an hour set a timer to go off four times an hour and check on the cr before or between his or her calls the frequency of the checks should lessen over time #when you check in on the cr see if the cr needs food liquid help getting to the bathroom a pill or a change of change of clothes ask if the cr needs a wet or soiled pad replaced is able to move comfortably under the covers etc if these things are taken care of on a regular basis the cr may feel less panicked when a need arises #let the cr know you need to move around the house but tell the cr you’ll check in at least twice an hour to see how he or she is doing show the cr your timer if you think seeing it will be reassuring to the cr #consider whether the cr would be happier moving with you as much as possible throughout the house you may need to place some chairs the cr can use safely in strategic locations the kitchen laundry area bedroom etc #a mobility aid might help the cr move safely around the home consider what is hard for the cr rising lowering sitting walking balancing etc and what aids might match the cr’s needs talk to the cr’s doctor or get a referral for the cr to see a physical therapist so the cr’s needs and options can be considered #a cr may call out urgently when the situation isn’t critical because of changes in communicative or cognitive abilities the cr may only be able to find a few words to let you know he or she is in distress always check to see if the cr’s physical needs are met #in addition to physical needs however the cr may be lonely and afraid when you can slow down to give the cr at least a few minutes at a time of your undivided caring attention your touch tone and body language are often important particularly to a cr who is losing memory and communication skills #if all else fails try connecting the cr to his or her favorite radio station or music with headphones some caregivers report that this sometimes reduces frequency of the cr’s calling-out
Materials: Timer for caregiver to carry or wear caregiver patience and creativity care schedule that includes frequent check-ins music player with headphones mobility aid if needed lift walker wheelchair cane transfer board gait belt etc consult with doctor and physical therapist if needed
Categories: Behavior Challenging, Emotional Psychological, Mobility, Needs Much Assistance, Independence, Maximum Supervision, Verbal Communication, So-So Verbal Comm, Cognitive Awareness, Somewhat Aware, Long-Term Memory, Poor L T Memory, Short-Term Memory, Poor S T Memory
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*This information is listed as a Tip and is not explicitly medically licensed