When we were taking care of Wheels, we spent a lot of time waiting at therapy appointments
– speech, dysphagia, occupational and physical therapy. When we weren’t going to therapy, we were going to a doctor’s office. I spent a lot of time waiting. My advice is to put together a day pack for yourself. It is much simpler than trying to cram everything in your pockets. And yes, even with smartphones being the equivalent of a TV, phone, computer, music and more, you’re still gonna need something more than just a cell phone.
First item to consider for caregiver self care
is a refillable water bottle with your beverage of choice. A snack or snacks; self explanatory. Pen and paper for taking notes. Or doodling. If you’re an avid reader bring a book or books. because you spend enough time in the same waiting rooms you’ll burn through magazines quickly. For me, it was an MP3 player and a set of headphones. Hand sanitizer or wet wipes, really great for a refresh. After some of the appointments, a folder with paperwork that was sent home for personal records and having that backpack was especially handy. The paperwork could be separate from all the supplies I needed for Dad. I also didn’t have to worry about it getting wet, blowing away in the wind, getting lost or forgotten amongst Dad’s supplies.
The choice of bag is pretty flexible.
A JanSport bag. One large compartment, one small pouch and that’s it. Most of my stuff fit in the front pouch. But having the larger main compartment meant that I had a place to keep, if needed, a sweater or paperwork. Maybe a larger lunch. Being a backpack, it would hang by one strap directly behind me. My hands were free to deal with Dad’s wheel chair, or Dad himself.
Other things to consider:
backup battery for your cell phone. Having some cash and coins tucked away somewhere for a vending machine. You’ll find often, that you’re spending more time than planned. You’ll want something to pay with at a vending machine. I strongly suggest you make use of a tablet, if you have it to surf or stream. and / or use an mp3 player. That will save the battery on your cellphone. It’s phone first and you may need it at any time to call family, call for a ride, call and verify information.
I also found on many occasions having a backpack made a passable pillow,
especially with an extra T shirt or sweater inside. I could catch up on sleep so I was alert for the drive home on those out of town doctors appointments.
Caretaking is about quality of life.
Your own personal day pack is about taking care of yourself and making sure you have the energy to take care of your loved one. And making sure yours is comfortable means you can better provide for you loved one.
————— by Justin Vance —————