Caregiver Resources and Support
While your loved one is in the hospital, he or she may not be able to communicate or make important healthcare decisions. You and/or another family member or friend can help. At Valley Presbyterian Hospital, we want to assist you in understanding how you can care for your loved one by being a communicator and an advocate.
Caregiver Tips & Suggestions
- Know the condition or illness your loved one is being treated for and the treatment options available to him/her.
- Know your loved one's rights, as well as their responsibilities.
- Know whether or not your loved one has an advance directive, and if so, what it specifies.
- Don't be afraid to speak up! If your loved one is too ill or reluctant to ask questions, make note of his or her concerns and any you may have.
- Track your loved one's prescribed medications and dosages while in the hospital and know what is prescribed upon discharge.
- Ask to speak with a case manager to find out what your options are following discharge.
- Understand the discharge instructions recommended by your loved one's physician.
- While you are making sure your loved one's needs are being met, don't neglect your own. Caregiving can be a stressful and time-consuming responsibility, so be sure not to neglect your diet and exercise routine, sleep requirements and need for personal time/space.
For more information about how you can ease the stress of caregiving, visit www.caregiver.org.
Caregiver Resources
Caregiving is a both a serious and gratifying responsibility. Although at times the caregiver may become overwhelmed, it's nice to know there are several highly regarded resources you can turn to for information and suggestions. Please click on the link below for a listing of these resources what will help provide you with important information and tips.
Family Caregiver Alliance
Information, referrals and support for caregivers of the elderly and chronically ill
800.445.8106
www.caregiver.org
Eldercare Locator
Help with locating aging services throughout the U.S.
800.677.1116
www.eldercare.acl.gov
Medicare
Official U.S. government site for people with Medicare
800-MEDICARE
www.medicare.gov
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program
In-home assistance for Medi-Cal recipients that are aged, blind or disabled
www.cdss.ca.gov
National Alliance for Caregiving
Support for family caregivers and the professionals who serve them
www.caregiving.org
Caregiver Action Network
Support for caregivers of chronically ill, aged or disabled loved ones
855.227.3640
www.caregiveraction.org
Alzheimer's Association
Information and support for people with Alzheimer's and other dementia.
800.272.3900
www.alz.org
