Family care plan key to a loved one’s dignity

No one wants to become dependent on others for the basic essentials of daily living. So what do you do when, as a result of aging, illness or injury you find yourself or your loved one having difficulty coping and managing life?

John Buckles, president of Home Helpers, said many take for granted what’s necessary to live independently.

“People often struggle with preparing meals, shopping for personal items, maintaining a residence, taking medications, handling mail, or safely operating a motor vehicle,” Buckles said, adding that recognition of a person’s limitations is an important step.

Regardless of whether care is provided by a family member, friend or care professional, consider the following when developing a plan:

•What specific care or assistance is needed now and anticipated in the future?

•Who will share the caregiving responsibility?

•What are the designated tasks and responsibilities for each person?

Charles Puchta, author of The Caregiver Resource Guide ( http://www.AgingUSA.com), suggests family members develop a plan that reflects the following:

•Whenever possible, give encouragement and direction that enables a person to complete the task on their own. A good slogan to keep in mind is to “Help only when help is necessary.”

•Provide assistive devices as appropriate that enable a loved one to maintain their mobility.

•Always provide care in a manner that preserves a person’s dignity.