The Duties & Responsibilities of a Caregiver

People who care for others with disabilities or illnesses must balance several responsibilities to provide the best care while continuing to manage their own lives and stress. There are some small but important preparatory steps and actions a caregiver can take to make the job of caregiving easier.

Home Safety

• A caregiver is responsible for creating and implementing home safety plans custom to the layout of the home and the disabilities of the person he is caring for. In the event of a fire, flood or other disaster (as geographically relevant) the caregiver must know how he will assist the ill or disabled person and how that person will escape on her own if necessary.

Comfort

• A caregiver should know how to properly position the ill or disabled person she is caring for, as certain positions may hurt or injure the person further. She should know how to help the person move as comfortably and safely as possible. Duties may include moving the person in and out of a wheelchair.

Personal Care

• The caregiver may need to help the person use the restroom, wash his hands, maintain personal hygiene or eat and drink. A caregiver's job is to help him maintain as normal a life as he would if he could do so on his own.

Healthy Habits

• A caregiver should understand the dietary, exercise and physical therapy needs of the person she is caring for. She should stick to a healthy eating plan at all times and help the ill or disabled person complete daily exercises or stretches safely. If the person requires medications, the caregiver must understand how much is needed, at what times and under what conditions.