As your loved ones age, they may one day need help with day to day tasks. Being a caregiver is a serious and often challenging duty, but it's also very rewarding. If you find that you're doing more for your parents or grandparents as they grow older, such as taking them to health screenings and helping with cleaning, then it may be helpful to learn more about what you can expect in the future.

What Duties Come With Being a Caregiver?

1. Helping With Personal Care

Older adults may have issues with mobility, which can make it difficult to bathe, groom, and use the bathroom with ease. As a caregiver, you may need to assist in these areas. Make sure the bathroom is equipped with safety elements, such as grab bars and non-slip floors, and invest in features that could improve comfort, such as a transfer bench that they can sit on while showering.

2. Offering Love and Companionship

Eventually, everyone will grow older and experience changes in their health. While it can be difficult to watch loved ones age, it's important to remember that it's a natural part of life, and these moments together can serve as precious memories. To that end, spend valuable time enjoying activities together. Watch television, sit in the yard, go for a walk, and simply soak up each other's company. Companion care is just as crucial as other duties.

3. Preparing Meals

While it's important to prepare healthy meals for your loved one, it's equally critical to be mindful of their dietary needs. Make sure to heed any suggestions given at health screenings, such as changes to sugar or sodium intake, and ask for medical assistance if you aren't sure. You may also need to assist in feeding if your loved one can't comfortably lift utensils or see their food.

4. Assisting With Transportation

For adults who are still active but not able to drive, you may want to take on the role of their driver. You'll have peace of mind knowing they arrive safely, and you can also assist with their chores. For example, you can help push the cart at the grocery store, or you could ask questions at their health screening that might be important to you as a caregiver.

Being a caregiver isn’t easy, but you aren’t alone. If you need support, turn to the compassionate and helpful staff at Serenity Adult Day Care in Powder Springs, GA. Offering in-home care, these professionals know that the comforts of home can make all the difference. The facility also offers everything from health screenings and companion care to physical therapy and adult day care. Visit them online for information about their services, or call (678) 324-1237 to speak with a staff member.