Suggestions During The First Week

IMPORTANT SUGGESTIONS FOR ORGANIZING DURING THE FIRST WEEKS

Be realistic.  You will not be able to solve everything needed in one week.

Prioritize. Look at handling the most important jobs first:  medical issues (doctor appointments, getting prescriptions filled, making sure diet is being addressed if necessary, taking meds), Food shopping and meals, support of children or elderly person in family, safety issues.

Deal with money issues up front. How will the group be reimbursed or get the funds to pay for groceries, and other items purchased?  Create a slush fund in a jar – ask members to get receipts and put them in the jar – have them initials the expenses or find another way to track of funds.  Does the group need to fund raise for money – if care recipient and family have very little?

Find out about diet and food preferences BEFORE people start cooking and bringing meals. Avoid making meals and treats the person cannot eat, is allergic to or doesn’t like.  If cooking for the family consider their likes or dislikes as well.

Think about others who might be able to help or join the group.  The book club friends, the churchgoers etc.  Always be on the lookout for these folks, you may need their help in a pinch or they may want to help and don’t know about the group yet.

Find free services in the community that can supplement the efforts of the group especially if it is small.  Local Department of Health, or Department of Aging.  Local ALS Association or American Cancer Society or other relevant organizations.

Start to create a plan for long term issues: the care recipient is moving in two months, or the son needs to go and look at colleges in the fall, the house is in need of repairs, or how can the group help the spouse keep their job or business going?

Don’t promise more than you can deliver.   Don’t feel guilty if you are not superman or superwoman.  Everything your group can do will make a big difference.  Caregivers cannot afford to become ill from overwork or worry.   Take good care of yourself too.

Tell people you come into contact with while helping your friend about your group and what you are doing.  Be friendly to all those people so things move more smoothly.  The doctor’s receptionist, the pharmacist, the mailman, the ambulette driver, or the neighborhood deli owner.  They may go out of their way to help you out just when you need it the most.

Support your fellow caregivers and get to know them better. A positive attitude can breed a warm sense of collaboration among the group members.  Stop and chat with them when changing shifts or after doing a job together.  Share your experiences and feelings as you build trust and strong relationships with each other.