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T H E C A R E G I V E R ’ S T O O L K I T
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
EXPLORING CHALLENGES
Common Caregiving Concerns, What to Expect............................................................... 8 Red Flags: Symptoms to Watch For................. 9 Does My Loved One Need Help?................... 10 Is Your Loved One in Denial? ..........................11 $ &DUHJLYHU 5HDOLW\ &KHFN .............................. 12 Long-Distance Caregiving .............................. 14 Tips for Successful Family Caregiving, Sharing the Care ............................................ 16 Tips for Sibling Family Caregiving, Keeping the Peace ......................................... 18CHAPTER 2
DEMENTIA & SAFETY
Forgetfulness or Something More? ................ 19 Is My Loved One at Risk for Mismanaging Their Medications?................... 22 Disposing of Medications Safely and Properly23 0DNLQJ +RPH $FFHVVLEOH ............................... 24 How to Make Home Safer .............................. 25 Is it Time for Your Loved One to Give Up the Keys?........................................................ 26CHAPTER 3
LEGAL & FINANCIAL CONCERNS
Legal & Financial Issues................................. 28 Warning Signs of Financial Exploitation ......... 29 What Important Documents Should a Caregiver Have?............................................. 30 My Checklist ................................................... 31CHAPTER 4
OPTIONS FOR CARE
Options for Care ............................................. 36 Choosing a Professional In-Home Caregiver . 37 )LQDQFLDO $VVLVWDQFH IRU ,Q +RPH &DUH .......... 40 $GXOW 'D\ &DUH ............................................... 42 &KRRVLQJ DQ $GXOW 'D\ &DUH .......................... 43 $VVLVWHG /LYLQJ ................................................ 45 The Nursing Home Decision, Decision “Tree” of Care Options..................... 47CHAPTER 5
INFORMATION & RESOURCES
Useful Contact Numbers ................................ 52 Transportation Services.................................. 53 Support Groups .............................................. 54 Online Resources ........................................... 55 Medicare......................................................... 59CHAPTER 6
DISABILITIES
Caring for Those with Disabilities ................... 62 Disability Resources ....................................... 65The information in this document is current at the time of publication to the best of our knowledge – August 2016
Harford County Department
of Community Services
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