Challenging Caregiver Situations Abound: Here are 4

Caregiving throws many challenges our way, including establishing care routines for our elders that are not only challenging, but may be somewhat embarrassing. By approaching these four caregiving situations with dignity and respect, awkard feelings will fade as they eventually become part of your regular care routine.

1. Taking care of “bathroom issues”
   Incontinence and trouble with toileting are common among the elderly. Many of you are changing a parent’s incontinence briefs. While I never had to do that, there is a day from my past related to this type of care that is branded onto my brain. My dad had endured one of his many surgeries and was at home recovering. Mom had taken care of his toileting needs since he arrived home from the hospital, however one day when I was sitting with Dad so Mom could go out for awhile, he had to go to the bathroom. I certainly didn’t mind helping him, but my heart was heavy with the thought that, since Dad was still cognitively stable, he would feel that his daughter helping him with such personal needs was embarrassing.

As it turned out, I needn’t have feared. Dad was pragmatic when it came to the human body, and he welcomed my help without any sign of embarrassment. Since I sat with Dad often, I quickly came to the point that the whole process was routine. Still, I’ve never forgotten the emotion involved that first time.

I’ve heard from male caregivers who think nothing of changing their mother’s undergarments. Incontinence care for them is an act of love, just as feeding her would be…

Continue reading on Agingcare for the full article on four common caregiving issues:

Helpful Tools:

Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity. SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence

Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work!   Now Available on Amazon.  

Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.

Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).

Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “…This book is for all of us; let it help you cope! Thank you to the author and everyone she spoke with!” …Dolores