7 Important Caregiver Duties

Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Research shows that 55 percent of U.S. women aged 85 or older lived alone in 2018. It is expected to increase to 95 million people by 2060, with more and more seniors choosing to age in their own homes.

Needless to say, the demand for caregivers is only going to grow as the baby boom generation continues to live longer and live on their own terms. Americans who are older than 65 would definitely need caregivers for various purposes. This article provides more information on the things a caregiver needs to know.

Top 7 Duties Caregivers Should Know About

1. Providing personal care

One of the most important duties of a caregiver is providing personal care to their elderly loved ones. This includes tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. While these may seem like simple tasks, they can be very difficult for elderly individuals to perform on their own. As a caregiver, it is important that you are patient and gentle when providing personal care to your loved one.

2. Assisting with medications

Another important duty of caregivers is assisting their elderly loved ones with taking their medications. This includes making sure that they take their medications as prescribed and keeping track of their medication schedule. It is also important to be aware of any possible side effects that their medications may have.

3. Providing transportation

Many elderly individuals are no longer able to drive themselves around. As a result, it is often up to the caregiver to provide transportation for their loved one. This includes taking them to doctor’s appointments, picking up groceries, and running other errands.

4. Meal preparation

Another important duty of caregivers is meal preparation. This includes cooking healthy meals for their loved ones and making sure that they are getting the nutrients they need. It is also important to be aware of any dietary restrictions that your loved one may have.

5. Light housekeeping

In addition to meal preparation, caregivers also often have to perform light housekeeping tasks for their elderly loved ones. This can include things like laundry, vacuuming, and dusting. While these tasks may seem small, they can make a big difference in the quality of life of your loved one.

6. Providing companionship

One of the most important but often overlooked duties of caregivers is providing companionship for their elderly loved ones. This includes engaging in activities together, such as watching television, going for walks, or simply talking. For many elderly individuals, this companionship is just as important as the other caregiving duties.

7. Respite care

Although it is important for caregivers to provide care for their loved ones, it is also important for them to take care of themselves. This is where respite care comes in. Respite care is temporary care that is provided so that the caregiver can have a break from their duties. This can be a huge help for caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

All caregivers should be aware of their duties and the responsibilities that come with the job. While caregivers can expect to handle the above duties, it’s important to remain flexible as your loved one’s needs change while they age. Caregivers provide quality care to the elderly since they have special knowledge and training on how to do so. This can be either at home or in a special care centre.

Golden Years ADHC is a licensed and qualified provider of Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) to those who are seeking to have an enriched and healthy life. We have been serving the California community since 1999. Our services include individual assessment, professional nursing services, physical, occupational and speech therapies, mental health services, therapeutic activities, social services, personal care, diverse meals, nutritional counselling, and transportation to and from the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas.

We provide therapeutic and recreational services to adults ages 18 years old and older with physical and mental impairments and/or other medical conditions. Our dedicated staff will treat you and your loved ones as one of our Golden family members with high professionalism, dignity, and compassion in helping them restore and/or maintain optimal health and empower self-reliance and independence.