Caring for the elderly is a special job that requires a certain type of dedicated, loving person. When you’re caring for the elderly, your job can be made easier when you have these 10 essential products at hand.
If you haven’t done so already, then put these products on your shopping list to not only make caretaking easier, but to allow you to take better care of your patient or loved one.
1. Patient Lift
A patient lift is possibly an essential product that you will need when caring for an elderly patient. Back injuries are all too common for caretakers; using a patient lift to help move your patient from one location to another can help keep both you and your patient safe from injury.
2. Stair Lift
If you are caring for someone who lives in a two-story house and needs to navigate stairs on a regular basis, then invest in a stair lift. A stair lift can make the risky task of going up and down stairs safer.
3. Power Wheelchair or Scooter
Depending on your patient’s current level of mobility, a power wheelchair or scooter may be important. Power wheelchairs and scooters can help your patient to get around within their own home, and they also allow for increased travel outdoors.
4. Grab Bars
Grab bars are a must in a home where you’re caring for an elderly patient. Grab bars can be installed anywhere, but they’re particularly useful in areas which are difficult to navigate like the bathtub.
5. Bathroom Safety Equipment
Bathroom safety equipment like toilet safety frames, commodes, raised toilet seats, and benches and stools can allow for improved caregiving in the bathroom. While the exact equipment that you need will depend on your patient’s limitations, bathroom safety equipment can help you provide your patient with security and dignity.
6. Adjustable Bed
Adjustable homecare beds are an excellent way to give your patient comfort. These beds come with a wide range of features designed to ensure that patients get quality, comfortable sleep.
7. Overbed Table
Overbed tables are super convenient. By wheeling the table over to your patient while he or she is in bed, you can provide them with meals, read material, and other items without their needing to reach out to a side table. Once done, simply roll the table away.
8. Lift Chair
Nothing beats the comfort of your favorite recliner, but it can be difficult to get out of the chair once you’re done. Lift chairs solve this issue for patients, lifting them forward and gently to their feet once they are ready to get up. A lift chair can provide your patient with a comfortable place to sit, sleep, or watch TV.
9. Calendar
Having a calendar on hand can allow you to provide more accurate, quality caregiving. Use any sort of calendar to remind yourself of doctor appointments and when medicines need to be given.
10. Walking Aids
Depending on your patient’s mobility, a walking aid, like a walker or a cane, may provide extra stability and support.
These 10 items can make a big difference in the care that you’re able to give to any elderly patient. Please call us at Med Mart if you would like to discuss what products are appropriate for your caretaking needs.