A Caregiving Plan: Develop a Plan
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
“Form your purpose by asking for counsel, then carry it out using all the help you can get.” Proverbs 20:18 MSG
Thoughts for Today
Caregiving usually comes on us gradually—giving a little help here and there, gradually moving toward more full-time care. Because of the gradual onset, we may be tempted just to “wing it” as we go. However, as in every important undertaking, it is important to develop a plan that will help us do the best for our parents or any loved one we are caring for.
One of the first steps in developing a care plan is becoming familiar with our loved one’s current limitations and understanding any medical diagnoses and the overall prognosis. Then we need to consider questions like these:
- What specific care or help is needed—both now and in the near future?
- What family members are available to serve as caregivers?
- What family members have special skills or training that could help?
- Who in the family will share the caregiving responsibility and who will take on the primary role?
- What are the designated tasks and responsibilities for each person?
- What outside services should we use?
Consider This ...
Perhaps you are undertaking all this on your own. Give some thought to the responsibilities for your situation and who can provide the needed assistance. If it ever seems as though you are doing all the work, ask your siblings or other family members for assistance. Quite often, people less active in the caregiving have no idea how much time and effort someone is spending providing care and support.
If this is the case with your family, try this. Create a list of all the things you do weekly and share it with your family. Point out tasks you need help with, point out responsibilities that do not require physical presence, and ask for help.
In situations where your family is unable to provide the needed physical care, make sure you understand the care options available in your area.
Prayer
Father, give me wisdom as I work on a plan for caring for my loved one. Guide me to wise counsel. And help me reach out to other family members for help. Open their eyes to the need. In Jesus’ name …
These thoughts were drawn from … Caregiving: Caring for Aging Parents by Charles Puchta. The purpose of this curriculum is to provide hope and direction to those concerned about the health and well-being of aging parents or an ill spouse or relative. We address predominate issues most families face. Each session is designed to discuss a specific area of concern such as the purpose of a caregiver or end-of-life planning. It will become clear to participants that the Bible provides encouragement and direction to help them through this caregiving journey. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a study for individuals or couples.
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