Looking After a Frail Care Patient? Here's What You Need to Know!

Looking after an elderly or terminally ill loved one can be daunting and overwhelming. Most individuals find themselves feeling burnt out trying to look after the patient while also balancing their responsibilities and duties.  When caring for someone who is bedridden or needs 24/7 attention, you need to create a comfortable environment where they can rest and recuperate. You need to know when to call in professionals for help and assistance. Because the list of tasks is only going to get longer. Like keeping them on a balanced diet is crucial to their health and well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore a few tips for caregivers to consider when they’re looking after a frail care patient.

A Balanced Diet is Vital to Their Wellbeing

Your patient must be eating a well-balanced diet filled with all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals their bodies need to get better and feel their best. It’s crucial to incorporate all the food groups, namely carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables and healthy fats. A healthy diet will help them get back on their feet and boost their immune systems so that they can heal quickly.

Create a Warm, Comfortable Space

The environment is important in the healing process. You need to create a calming, relaxing space where the patient won’t be disturbed or bombarded by people walking in and out of the room. You could add some comfortable couches, add essential oils to calm the nervous system or even play calming music to set a relaxing mood in the space.

Know When it’s Time to Use Caregiver Services

Remember that you’re human, and you have other facets of your life that need your attention. It’s important to know when to call in professional help so that you can have peace of mind knowing your loved one will receive the best care. Excellent companies provide caregiver services to frail or terminally ill patients. These in-home care establishments ensure that the individual gets the best medical attention in the comfort of their home.

Adequate Sleep and Relaxation is Vital

You need to make sure that your loved one gets enough sleep throughout the night. They should get about 7 to 8 hours of sleep to feel refreshed in the morning and go about their day. Furthermore, you must allow them to take naps, relax on the couch or even just have “quiet time” throughout the day. Relaxation and proper sleep will help them feel more calm.

They Must Get Enough Movement and Exercise

Movement and exercise are crucial to the general well-being of the individual. The person must be able to move their body to ensure bedsores or arthritis doesn’t set in. A simple walk in the garden or gentle arm and leg movements will do the trick in keeping them physically healthy.

Create a Schedule for Dispensing Medication

It can be tough trying to keep track of all the times a patient needs to take specific medications, especially if they need to be taken at certain times of the day. By creating a schedule, caregivers can ensure that the patient receives the right amount of medication and keep track of medication displacements. A timetable will also help alleviate any confusion and uncertainty about dispensing medicines.

Spend Quality Time with the Individual

People underestimate the impact that social interactions and conversation can have on one’s general well-being. So, it’s important to take some time out of your busy schedule to spend time with the individual. You could read them a book or listen to their favorite music while chatting.

You Need to Consider Home Modifications

Depending on the patient, you might want to consider small home remodeling modifications to help the older adult move around easily. For example, you could add a ramp for wheelchair access or install blinds in a bright room. The point is to make them feel comfortable.

Final Thoughts: What to Consider

Looking after someone with a terminal disease or in frail care can be stressful and overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone on this journey. Numerous facilities specialize in caregiver services. Do the necessary research and find the tools that work for you. With the right support structure and processes, you can help your loved one live a comfortable, peaceful life.