One very important task that caregivers in the elderly care sector are faced with is deciding whether or not a client will be safe in the interim between scheduled visits. Since caregivers are often the only person seniors in assisted living programs interact with on a regular basis, the burden of responsibility lies with them. There are many factors that should be taken into consideration when determining if elders are able to function safely and efficiently in the absence of their care providers.
Medical Conditions
Does the client have any life-threatening medical conditions that may bring on seizures or other medical emergencies at any given time? Is the senior able to self-medicate in a correct dosage, if need be? Are they equipped with a personal medical alert alarm?
Personal Care
Are they able to go to the bathroom without assistance, change their clothes in case of an accident, and tend to other basic hygiene functions on their own? Feeding, cooking, and food consumption also fall under this category. Is the elder able to prepare their own food if they get hungry? Can they be trusted to remember the dangers of fire and leaving cooking food unattended? If the senior has a special diet to follow, such as a low sodium intake or a diabetic menu, will they adhere to its guidelines and be able to make the correct food choices?
Mindset and Emotions
When left alone for an extended period of time, some elderly people often get confused or scared. These emotions can be heightened by underlying medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s. Do they have someone to call if they get scared? Will they go outside? If they do find their way outside, will they be able to find their way back home?
Emergencies and Other dangers
Being vulnerable to break-ins is a major concern in the senior population. Will the client know what to do in case of an emergency? In case of an emergency, will they be able to dial the phone and summon assistance from 9-1-1 or emergency service professionals? In the event of a fire, does the senior know where all of the escape routes are in the home? Is the home equipped with an alarm system?
Often times, the caregiver is the client’s lifeline to getting the information that they need in order to remain as self-sufficient as they can for as long as they can. Knowing all of these things is imperative to ensure the safety of seniors in elderly care programs.
Emergency Services
Luckily for our clients living in the San Diego, El Cajon and La Mesa areas they are all protected by the quality national emergency services, and for that we are grateful.
Tags: care providers, caregivers, el cajon, elderly home care, la mesa, safety, san diego
