About Family Caregivers

When a family member is chronically ill or unable to care for himself, often family members step in to provide assistance or around-the-clock care. A family caregiver is someone who is likely related to the patient needing care. Being a family caregiver means sacrificing time to meet the needs of the patient.
  1. Housekeeping

    • A helpful way for a family caregiver to assist the patient is to provide general housekeeping services such as laundry, mopping floors and keeping the home clean.

    Hygiene Care

    • Making sure that the patient is clean and that wounds and sores heal properly is essential in overall care and optimal health.

    Errand Running

    • Family caregivers can go the grocery store to pick up food, pay bills and take the patient to doctor visits.

    Respite

    • Family caregivers also need a break from time to time; other family members may step in and provide additional reprieve or respite, so the original caregiver can get a break.

    Companionship

    • Often, the patient is widowed or lives alone. Companionship from family members offers security and a sense of familiarity to the patient.

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