Very few people have the time to prepare for being a primary caregiver. When an elderly family member becomes ill, they will often require some help from a caregiver. Being a caregiver is not an easy thing to do. While the following things can help prepare, there is really no way to be completely ready to take on this role.

First start by setting up a family meeting as soon as you can; at the next family get together or by phone – include your aging parents in the discussion. The meeting is best held during a non emergency situation. A calm discussion about what kind of care is needed in the present and might be called for in the future can avoid a lot of confusion. Ask your parents or grandparent what they want. Use their wishes as the basis for a plan. Decide who will be responsible for which tasks. The best first step is to name a primary caregiver, even if one is not needed immediately. That way the primary caregiver can step in if there is a crisis.

Helpful Steps:

1. Establish a baseline of important information on the senior.

2. Gather all of the current medical information on the individual(s), include diagnoses, medications and medical assessments.

3. Get educated. Know about the medical conditions of the senior.

4. Be sure to know how well the senior can function independently before they require any help.

5. Design a care plan – one that is easily adjusted.

6. Keep all financial records in a safe location.

7. Review any and all legal documents and keep in a safe place.

8. Have safety checklists.

9. Keep in contact with others.

10. Care for yourself.

Also, think about schedules and how to adapt them to give respite to a primary caregiver or to coordinate holiday and vacation times. Families report that offering appreciation, reassurance, and positive feedback to the primary caregiver is an important, but sometimes forgotten contribution.