Caregiving Tip: Being Part of the Care Team
Sometimes families have concerns regarding their family member's care. This can be difficult, but with open communication and creation of a partnership between all involved parties, these concerns can be alleviated. A care team partnership involves the person with dementia, family and friends and health care providers including but not limited to doctors, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and adult day program staff. Here are some tips that you can use to facilitate the care team process:
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Remember as a family member or caregiver you are an important part of the care team.
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Establish a good relationship with health care providers to help ensure the best care for the person with dementia.
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Understand the role of each health care provider and how they will be helping your family member or the person for whom you are caring.
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Be an advocate for your family member. If you feel concerned about their care, communicate this to the appropriate member of the care team and work towards change.
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Before contacting health care providers, find out the best time to call to discuss the person's care.
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Keep a notebook with key information about the person's health care including contact names of all care providers, a list of medications and a log of changes you have seen in the person for whom you are caring.
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Encourage professionals to speak to your family member. This allows the person to be a part of their own care plan.
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If you have concerns about health care providers, it may be appropriate to organize a case conference that involves key health professionals, a social worker, home care or other relevant individuals.
Other caregiving tips: