Quality Channel

Long distance Cancer Caregivers envision the future to stay ahead of the developing situation. Being proactive will help reduce problems and dangerous situations.

1. Inspect the living quarters for safety issues. Plan repairs for items needing attention. If your loved one is elderly or becomes weak from their condition, this will become more of an issue. Price and plan for installation of safety items, if needed.

Bathroom concerns to be examined include:

Bathtub or shower seats Grips on the bottom of the tub or shower for stability Grab bars in bathroom by toilet and in tub/shower Is a walk-in shower needed? Repair leaky faucets and pipes to avoid wet, slippery floors

To avoid falls and injuries, assess the following trip and fall hazards:

Loose carpet and linoleum tiles Worn stairways Electrical cords in dangerous places

2. Provide Lifeline for medical emergencies and falls, if necessary.

Provides a bracelet or necklace to be worn by the individual. Provides a call button for emergency assistance. Provides an orderly in-place "system" for obtaining assistance during medical emergencies when the patient can't get to the phone to call for help.

3. Will your loved one need someone to manage their medications?

Assemble a list of current medications and instructions. If your loved one is elderly, can they open the medication containers without assistance? Do any medications need to be cut in half or quarters? Local pharmacies have pill-cutters you can purchase at a small price. (Depending on their age and condition, your loved one may need help with this.) Assemble a list of possible neighbors or acquaintances who may be available to assist with cutting and dispensing medications, if necessary. There are a number of devices available to assist with the dispensing of medications. Prepare a week's worth of medication in pre-labeled pill dispensers, if your loved one is well enough to keep track of when they are taking the meds.

4. You may need to determine your loved one's financial situation.

This can be a delicate matter. Handle it with care. Explain your need to know. You don't want your loved one to think you are after their money. Where are the important documents kept? Can your loved one self-pay? Will your loved one need financial assistance? Do you know the whereabouts of your loved one's financial documents, if they become very ill? How will the bills be handled if your loved one is temporarily not well enough to deal with this? When are the bills due each month? Does anyone have the Power of Attorney, if necessary?

5. Does your loved one have any special insurance?

Health insurance Long-term Care plan Cancer plans, sometimes called "Cancer Insurance". Some of these will provide specific funds for a caregiver to travel to be near the patient. These plans are completely independent of health insurance. Medicare Medicaid

Being a long distance Cancer Caregiver is not without challenges. Facing the future with planning and preparation help the caregiver and the patient feel more confident and in control. Cancer Caregivers operating from a distance will want to learn to deal with their challenges in a positive and proactive way.

And now, to help you get more valuable information and tips, I'd like to invite you to take advantage of my free newsletter at http://sanctuaryforcancercaregivers.com/?page_id=6. You'll be strengthened and inspired with tips, strategies, and words of wisdom. You'll be better equipped to give care to your loved one and yourself. You'll also receive a copy of my "Affirmations for Cancer Caregivers."