Are you a new caregiver? Here’s the first thing you should do

Evelyn Hunter, facilitator for the Floyd Memorial caregiver support group, and Terry Graham, registered nurse at Helping Hands Companion Services, give the top recommendations to consider when stepping into a caregiver role.

Step 1: Find Resources
Educate yourself on the resources available within the community so you can find help at your fingertips when needed. “First-time caregivers may not realize all the resources that are available to help with the caregiving process,” Evelyn says. “For example, they may not know the doctor can order physical and occupational therapy that can be given at home. The occupational therapist can also provide suggestions like which medical equipment would work best to make life easier.

“There are excellent resources in every county in every state. Harrison, Clark, Floyd, and Scott counties in Indiana have Lifespan as a resource. Also, not many people realize that if your loved one is on Medicaid, it will help with more than just your medical bills. It can also help you find in-home care services. Oftentimes you can find resources just searching the internet.”

For those in Jefferson, Oldham, Trimble, Shelby, Spencer, Bullitt, and Henry counties, the Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living is available to help you find resources in the community. Eldercare Resources Louisville serves the greater Louisville Metro and Southern Indiana area in finding local health care providers.

Read more advice for new caregivers in our spring issue.