Providing Care
Adequate sleep is essential to staying healthy and functioning well. You need sleep to do your daily work safely, to cope with emotional stress, and to carry on giving care. Yet if you are caring for someone at home or sitting with someone round... read more...
Whether you are caring for someone full-time or even just occasionally helping out, caregiving can be mentally, physically and emotionally demanding. Although taking time for yourself is often easier said than done, pushing yourself to do more,... read more...
Medications are commonly used to help manage pain or other symptoms that are troubling. It is important to know about the medications that you are prescribed: how much to take, when to take them, why you are using them, potential side effects... read more...
A person living with an advancing illness will not eat as much as they once did. While it is important not to become too focused on increasing the amount of food a person eats, there are a number of strategies that can be used to increase interest... read more...
Many people with advanced illness experience significant mouth problems, which can affect their quality of life . Common problems include dry mouth, lips, and throat; open sores; yeast infections; or discomfort with dentures and partial plates. read more...
Caring for hair Illness tends to make people perspire, making their hair damp and sometimes tangled. Brushing someone’s hair regularly can be a thoughtful gesture. Hair can be washed in the shower or tub, at the kitchen table with a basin, or... read more...
Most people find bathing or showering refreshing. However, tub baths and even showers may become more difficult as illness progresses. Here are some ideas for making bathing comfortable and safe. General Tips Buy or rent equipment such as... read more...
For some people, the prospect of either giving or receiving assistance with toileting can be a source of embarrassment. A matter-of-fact approach is best. If the person is able to get to the bathroom, consider whether the environment is helpful. read more...
Anyone who remains lying or sitting in one position for more than a couple of hours is at risk for skin breakdown. This can lead to pressure sores, which are also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores. These skin problems can be painful and decrease... read more...