Why CEOs Should Care About #caregivers

First and foremost, it is the right thing to do. Still, recent research shows that recognizing and supporting the needs of employee hashtag#caregivers can reduce resignations and absenteeism. You do the math, but the study showed that preventing five employees from quitting can save your company approximately $200,000.

As someone who has experienced hashtag#caregiving, I know the immense stress it can bring. When CEOs support caregivers with flexible work arrangements and caregiving leave, they reduce turnover and build a loyal, resilient workforce.

Nearly 73% of employees juggle caregiving with their jobs. Addressing their needs fosters a culture of empathy and commitment. It’s a win-win: happier employees and a stronger, more dedicated team.

Remember, behind every statistic is a person. Supporting #caregivers isn’t just good business; it’s the right thing to do. ...

Why Reminders Aren`t Enough: Medication Management Challenges for Caregivers

My Mom always prided herself on her independence. When her doctor prescribed new medications, she insisted she could handle it alone. "Just remind me," she`d say. But reminders aren`t always enough.

Right Drug, Incomplete Picture
One day, I noticed her pill organizer had several compartments still full. "Mom, did you take your heart medication?" I asked. "Of course," she replied confidently, but the evidence suggested otherwise.

Right Dose, Inconsistent Execution
As I dug deeper, I realized she sometimes doubled up on doses when she forgot or skipped them. We even found pills on the floor and under pillows on the sofa. A simple reminder system wasn`t enough to ensure proper dosing.

Right Route, Misunderstood Instructions
When I accompanied her to a doctor`s appointment, I was shocked to learn she`d been applying a topical cream orally because she misread the label. My Mom was legally blind from diabetes. Reminders couldn`t prevent this kind of misunderstanding.

Right Time, Irregular Adherence
Despite setting multiple alarms on her phone, Mom`s medication schedule was erratic. Some days, she`d take everything at once; other days, not at all. This experience taught me that medication reminding is just a tiny part of the bigger picture. Accurate medication management involves:
Comprehensive understanding of each medication
Proper organization and storage
Regular monitoring of adherence and side effects
Clear communication with healthcare providers
Adjusting strategies as needs change

Remember, when it comes to medication, it`s not just about remembering - it`s about managing. Let`s work together to keep our loved ones safe and healthy. ...

As People Age, Things Change

They may not be as capable as they once were. Things that were once within their grasp seem desperately out of reach. Supporting family members struggling to maintain independence, health, and safety can be a significant challenge. Caregivers often become ill trying to care for the ones they love.

How can we get ahead, recognize what`s happening, and gather information for future conversations? One of the best ways I`ve found in my 12 years of operating an in-home care company is through observation.

But how do we observe? What are the benchmarks? This process is for informal discussions and can vary for each person. I`ve created a module in The Nest to guide you through these discussions, starting with an outline you can personalize.

For instance, consider driving in terms of health and safety. A year ago, Dad was driving fine. Now, his driving is limited, or he`s monitoring himself. This may or may not apply to you, so select the relevant categories.

The most crucial step is to draw a line in the sand. Start by looking back and narrowing your focus. Select your categories and walk through them methodically. If you don`t see your parents often, reach out and build depth into your circles of care or connections. Ask questions and gather insights.

Personalizing this exercise is essential, but you can also gather information from the background to avoid upsetting your loved ones. The last thing you need is for your parents to feel like you are going behind their backs. In the long run, this helps in hiring in-home care or considering other support services. It`s common to hear families or those needing care say, "I`m fine. I have great neighbors." While having supportive neighbors is terrific, they can`t provide 24-hour care.

Starting an awareness journal can be particularly useful, even if your loved ones seem fine. It`s not about adding another task to your to-do list but making notes, perhaps on your phone. Journaling these observations methodically helps understand and support changes in a way that works for everyone.

These nuggets of information are invaluable! ...

Life after caregiving can feel like an endless void. Holidays were always spent with family, and I started feeling this overwhelming sense of grief around these times. When my mom and Gram passed away, I found myself lost. Through my grief, I learned to transition from being their daughter and granddaughter to a professional caregiver. 💜 If you`re navigating this journey, know you`re not alone. Lean on your support system and allow yourself to heal. #Caregiving #GriefJourney #AlwaysHerDaughter #Healing #SupportSystem ...

Have a safe and happy holiday! ...

📞 A Call That Changed Everything
As I hurried to my next meeting, my phone buzzed with "MOM" flashing on the screen. I had three quick thoughts: I just talked to her, I don`t have time, and I`ll call back later. But later came too late.
When I finally returned the call, there was no answer. Panic set in, and I sped across town, guilt and fear twisting inside me. I kept praying to God, please let her be alright. When I arrived, I found her unresponsive. Tears ran down my face like a Spring rain splashing off my mom`s face as I struggled to get ahold of myself and get help. In that instant, I knew this was the beginning of the end.
In the following days, we made difficult decisions. My mom wished to remain home, clinging to independence, but safety demanded 24-hour care. Balancing her wishes with the reality of her health was agonizing.
💔 Caregivers, you are not alone
We all face these heart-wrenching choices. Remember, we make them from a place of love.
Suggestions for Caregivers and Families:
-Communicate Openly: Regularly discuss health and safety concerns with your loved one. Understanding their wishes helps in making informed decisions.
-Seek Professional Guidance: Don`t hesitate to consult healthcare professionals or caregiving experts. Their insights can provide clarity and support.
-Create a Care Plan: Develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses your loved one`s emotional and physical needs. Share this with your healthcare team.
-Prioritize Self-Care: Caring for yourself is crucial. Join support groups, seek counseling, and ensure you have a network to lean on.
-Leverage Resources: Utilize community resources and services that offer additional support and respite care.
Let`s support each other. Where do you draw the line between independence and safety?
#Caregiving #FamilyCaregiver #SupportEachOther #SeniorCare
🔗 Join us in The Nest, a community where caregivers find strength and support: The Nest ...