So far so good. That’s my take on the American Red Cross Family Caregiving Program, being held at Evergreen Court Retirement Community, where I work. With the first three segments behind us–Home Safety, General Caregiving Skills and Positioning and Helping Your Loved One Move–the program rates an A in my book.
If you care for your aging parent either full or part-time, this free nationwide program is for you. Facilitated by Red Cross-certified leaders, the series has eight modules in all–we’re using six. Mike Davis, of Always Best Care-Eastside, leads our discussion. Videos and booklets bring the content to life. Another plus: caregivers can choose the segment or segments they’d like to attend.
Things I learned from the Home Safety module:
It’s important to check the water temperature with a bath thermometer or the back of your hand before your loved one enters the tub or shower. The temperature should not exceed 105 degrees.
Set the hot water heater to low or set no higher than 120 degrees.
During “Positioning and Helping Your Loved One Move,” I watched with interest caregivers use correct body mechanics and work with their loved one on performing range of motion exercises.
I look forward to the next three segments: Assisting With Personal Care, June 1; Healthy Eating, June 8 and Caregiving for the Caregiver, June 15, all beginning at 7 pm.
I’ll tell you what I think. For more information on the program and locations near you, contact the Red Cross Family Caregiving Directory.
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