Not only can this strain cause tension between you and your loved ones, but it could potentially compromise your health. One study done by Elissa Epel, M.D., from the University of California in San Francisco found that family caregivers experiencing extreme stress have been shown to age prematurely, taking as many as 10 years off your life!

Although it may seem selfish at first, your top priority as a family caregiver should always be yourself! You must be at your best in order to provide your loved ones the quality care and attention they deserve.

This is where we can help. Taylor Made Home Care provides the care your loved one will need to remain healthy, active and safe in their own home. Our experienced and compassionate caregivers go the extra mile to ensure your loved ones thrive in their environment, providing you with respite care and peace of mind so you can focus on your own needs.

Family caregiving can be a much more enjoyable experience once you recognize and accept there are limits to what you can accomplish alone. When all is said and done, you want to cherish fond memories of spending quality time with your loved ones, not the strain and tension it caused.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s encouraged. Call us today and let’s talk about it!

Keep emergency numbers handy 
Always keep a list of emergency numbers by each phone. Write this information in large enough print that you can read it easily if you are in a hurry or frightened. Be sure to list numbers for:

• 911
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
• Family member or friend to call in case of emergency
• Healthcare provider’s office

Prevent falls

• If you have fallen before, think about investing in a special alarm that you wear as a bracelet or necklace. We are official distributors of the LIFEFONE personal response service system. Installation is complimentary for all our clients. Call our office for more information.
• Don’t rush to answer the phone. Many people fall trying to answer the phone. Either carry a cordless or cell phone or let an answering machine pick up.
• When walking on smooth floors, wear non-slip footwear, such as slippers with rubber/no-slip bottoms or flat, thin-soled shoes that fit well.
• If you have a cane or a walker, use it at all times instead of holding onto walls and furniture.

Safety-proof your home

• Make sure all hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of objects, especially in high traffic areas.
• Use rails and banisters when going up and down the stairs. Never place scatter rugs at the bottom or top of stairs.
• Tape all area rugs to the floor so they do not move when you walk on them.

Protect against fire and related dangers

• If there is a fire in your home, don’t try to put it out. Leave and call 911. Know at least two ways to get out of your apartment or home.
• When you’re cooking, don’t wear loose clothes or clothes with long sleeves
• Replace appliances that have fraying or damaged electrical cords.
• Don’t put too many electric cords into one socket or extension cord.
• Install a smoke detector and replace the battery twice a year.
• Never smoke in bed or leave candles burning, even for a short time, in an empty room.
• Make sure heaters are at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Turn off space heaters when you leave the room.

Avoid bathroom hazards

• Set the thermostat on the water heater no higher than 120° F to prevent scalding.
• Have grab bars installed in the shower and near the toilet to make getting around easier and safer.
• Put rubber mats in the bathtub to prevent slipping.
• If you are having a hard time getting in and out of your tub, or on and off the toilet, ask your provider to help you get a special tub chair or bench or raised toilet seat.

Prevent poisoning

Carbon Monoxide

• Never try to heat your home with your stove, oven, or grill since these can give off carbon monoxide–a deadly gas that you cannot see or smell.
• Make sure there is a carbon monoxide detector near all bedrooms, and be sure to test and replace the battery two times a year.

Medications

• Keep all medications in their original containers so you don’t mix up medicines.
• Ask your pharmacist to put large-print labels on your medications to make them easier to read.
• Take your medications in a well-lit room, so you can see the labels.
• Bring all of your pill bottles with you to your healthcare provider’s appointments so he or she can look at them and make sure you are taking them correctly.

Cleaning products

• Never mix bleach, ammonia, or other cleaning liquids together when you are cleaning. When mixed, cleaning liquids can create deadly gases.

Protect against abuse

• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times.
• Never let a stranger into your home when you are there alone.
• Talk over offers made by telephone salespeople with a friend or family member.
• Do not let yourself be pressured into making purchases, signing contracts, or making donations. It is never rude to wait and discuss the plans with a family member or friend